After school programs in Chamberlain, Fort Pierre and Murdo are among the organizations in South Dakota receiving grants to provide funding for academic enrichment opportunities for students.
Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Center grants range from $50,000 to $300,000 a year to support out-of-school time activities. Projects are funded for a period of five years based upon successful implementation and annual reviews.
School districts, community-based organizations and faith-based organizations are eligible to apply. This year, 24 organizations applied and seven were approved. Those seven join 24 existing grant recipients across South Dakota.
The following organizations have been awarded the grants:
- Chamberlain School District – Cubs LEAP;
- Three Rivers Special Services Cooperative – Stanley County GOLD Program;
- Three Rivers Special Services Cooperative – Jones County Coyote Club;
- Black Hills Special Services Cooperative – Discovery at Knollwood and Horace Mann;
- Black Hills Special Services Cooperative – Discovery at General Beadle;
- Black Hills Special Services Cooperative – Belle Fourche Community Learning Center; and
- Enemy Swim Day School – Toka Nuqan Wayawa Tipi Out of School Time Program.
The 21st Century Community Learning Centers provide a range of high-quality services that support student learning and development. Academic enrichment, tutoring, mentoring, homework help, music, arts, sports, and cultural activities are key components of the grants. The learning centers also offer literacy and other educational services to families of participating children.
The program is authorized under Title IV, Part B of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.
