Staff Writer
The Caribou 21st Century Learning Center After School Program, was recently awarded a $250,000 grant from the Maine Department of Education for the 2008-2009 school year. Lou Willey, director of the 21st Century After School Program has said that this grant will be servicing students enrolled in the Caribou and Limestone school systems, at five different sites within these two communities.
The grant itself will provide funding for an extended day of kindergarten for targeted children in Limestone as well as after school support for students in grade 3 through grade 9 in both communities.
The children referred into this type of program are those who may need an academic boost and the format also provides an opportunity for students to become involved in after school enrichment activities.
The basic goals of the awarded grant include: academic improvement of low performing and or failing students in reading, language arts and math; to improve the health and wellness of youth including nutrition, physical fitness, safety issues, social/emotional development and substance abuse prevention. Also; cultural and multi-cultural enrichment; family education and engagement and sustainability and partnerships.
Willey also stated that each site will offer nutritious snacks, enrichment programs in the areas of language arts, reading and math, physical activity and homework help. Field trips and special activities centered around student interest levels will also be offered.
