The Virginia Department of Education has announced 28 grants to fund new 21st Century Community Learning Centers in 19 school divisions, including Eastern Montgomery Elementary School in Montgomery County.
The grants range from $50,000 to $200,000 and “promote equitable educational opportunities for students by supporting tutoring and enrichment activities that complement regular academic programs,” according to information released by the Virginia Department of Health.
Community learning centers are defined as programs that operate before and after school, during school breaks, Saturdays, and during summer vacation, and provide educational services for families of participating children.
“Well-designed community programs support the efforts of teachers and schools to improve outcomes for students and engage families in the learning process,” Superintendent of Public Instruction James Lane said. “I thank all of the applicants — school divisions and community-based partners — for promoting equity by providing these additional learning opportunities for our students and their families.”
Locally,the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Virginia at Eastern Montgomery Elementary was awarded a grant. Applicants for the grants — including school divisions and community-based organizations — were encouraged to consult with parents, non-profits, businesses, arts and cultural organizations, and youth development agencies to develop their applications and programs.
