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R-2 District Wins
$95,000 Federal Grant U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill has announced that the Chillicothe R-2 School District will receive a $95,575 Mentoring Program Grant from the US Department of Education to help children in need receive assistance in school through mentorship. Nancy Elliott, CMS Taking Another Path (TAP) instructor, wrote the grant which she said will expand the alternative school's existing mentoring program. Students who are not enrolled in TAP, but considered to be "at risk" will also participate in the mentoring program. "With these funds, we can do monthly field experiences, purchase supplies and materials to use in sessions with students and the mentors," Elliott explained. She added that the funds will also benefit the youth participating in the Y-PAL program directed by Genie Amen at the Grand River Area Family YMCA. Elliott said that the directors of the grant include fellow TAP instructor Ellen Gott and Ms. Amen. Middle School counselor, Laurie Hardie, and Central School Counselor, Susan Jackson, will also be working closely with the program. Around 45 youth in grades four through eight will participate in the program, and Elliott said that the search to find enough mentors will get in full swing soon. "That's our big challenge," Elliott said. While she noted that several mentoring partnerships have already been established through existing programs, many more are needed. The Dept. of Education states that the grant is intended to help children with the greatest need in grades 4-8 that reside in rural areas, high crime areas, troubled environments, or who have attended schools with violence problems. Mentors participating in the program undergo appropriate screening and background checks and receive continuous training and support. Elliott said that mentors will be encouraged to meet with students during school hours and at other times and possibly extend the program through the summer on a minimum basis. When asked what the mentors and students will do together, Elliott explained that sessions will likely alternate between academic tutoring sessions and field trips/social outings. "We're trying to see if we can go to KC around Christmas time and see "The Christmas Carol," Elliott said. While mentors cannot be paid for their volunteer efforts, the grant money, Elliott explained, covers any expenses that may occur through the program. The grant is a 3-year grant ($95,575 per year), but the school district must reapply for it annually. |
