Learning centers in Pee Dee, Grand Strand land grants

COLUMBIA – Forty 21st Century Community Learning Centers grants totaling more than $6 million have been approved for local programs statewide. 

The federally-funded grants are legislated through No Child Left Behind and awarded a competitively.

The grants provide a wide range of scientifically research-based best practices to serve students, particularly those who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools in both rural and urban communities.  The grants pay for activities in language arts, mathematics, science, technology, health and safety as well as other educational programs.

Students’ families are offered various family literacy opportunities as a part of a holistic approach to developing and supporting each child.

State Superintendent of Education Jim Rex said an extended learning day can be helpful to many children because these programs enhance instruction that takes place during the traditional school day.

“Students who are struggling in class can get a real academic boost in a well-run after-school setting,” Rex said. 

The 21st Century Community Learning Centers effort currently supports 102 programs at 180 sites serving approximately 15,000 students.

Grant-funded projects include remedial education, tutoring, mentoring, limited-English proficiency programs, counseling, character education, leadership skills training, arts and recreational initiatives, career development, and drug and violence prevention.

The 21st Century grant program began 11 years ago. At that time, only school districts were eligible for funding.  Grants are now available for other public and private organizations, including faith-based organizations. 

The 2009-10 recipients include 26 school districts and/or schools, 10 community-based organizations, one faith-based organization, one college/university site and two state correctional facilities.  Projects will serve students from 62 schools in 30 districts.

Eligibility for funding includes public school districts, individual public schools, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations and other public or private organizations. Partnerships of two such organizations or a consortium of partners are eligible to apply.  New partnerships and school district groups receive funding priorities.