Shelby County receives 21st Century Community Learning Center Grants

                                        
(NASHVILLE, TN), September 4, 2008 – State Senator Paul Stanley (R-Germantown) said today Shelby County Schools will receive $216,250 in 21st Century Community Learning Center Grants to raise achievement of low-income students in underperforming schools in the county.  A $150,000 grant was also awarded to the YMCA of Greater Memphis.  The federal grants will provide enrichment programs that will operate before or after the school day to boost student achievement.

“I am pleased that our county will receive a considerable portion of these education enrichment grant funds,” said Senator Stanley.  “This will give these students the kind of personal instruction needed to help them catch up or excel.”

Twenty-two school systems and community organizations received a portion of the $4.75 million in grants to open a total of 74 sites across Tennessee. The funds can be used in various ways including remedial help, academic enrichment, expanded library hours, technology instruction character education, or arts education.  Grantees must back up their program’s effectiveness with strong scientific research in order to be awarded the grant.  The funding will continue for the next three years with the opportunity for a two year extension if the program demonstrates adequate student progress.

“It is important that our education dollars are accountable,” Stanley added.  “This program demands effective use of this grant money.  I am hopeful that these grants will be of great benefit to those local students who might otherwise fall behind in their education.”

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