Senator Dinniman Announces $400,000 for CCIU STEM Programs in Avon Grove and Oxford

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The money will benefit elementary school kids in Avon Grove and Oxford.--photo via post-gazette.com
PA State Senator Andy Dinniman
PA State Senator Andy Dinniman

Nearly half a million dollars of federal grant funds will send after-school help to the Avon Grove and Oxford Area elementary students who need it most — in a setting much more attractive than detention.

A $400,000 federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant has been awarded to the Chester County Intermediate Unit for three years of STEM-based enrichment activities that will allow students to develop problem-solving and decision-making skills; increase content-area knowledge and improve English-language skills; participate in physical activities; enjoy healthy snacks; and receive tutoring, homework help and assistance with long-term projects.

“After-school programs like those provided through the 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant program can help keep kids on the right track in school and ensure that they continue learning outside the traditional classroom environment,” state Sen. Andy Dinniman said.

Joe O'Brien
Joe O’Brien

Avon Grove and Oxford have already proved the effectiveness of such centers; a previous $336,000 grant provided after-school and summer help for at-risk middle and high school English language learners at Avon Grove High School, Fred S. Engle Middle School and Penn’s Grove School.

“We are able to provide the students with a safe place to be nurtured and to learn after regular school hours, which is a really crucial time,” CCIU Executive Director Joseph O’Brien said. “At the same time, we are able to help students improve their academic performance in school, which helps the students and their schools achieve their overall educational goals. We are very appreciative of the opportunities that this grant affords our students.”

The new grant money will also offer students’ families educational services such as literacy instruction, computer training and cultural enrichment.

CCIU was one of 50 entities selected by the Pennsylvania Department of Education from 112 applicants to share $16.1 million.

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