District authorizes application for 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant

District instructional staff presented plans to apply for a 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant and the board authorized district employees to file the application.

Dori Reid, an instructional specialist leading the project team, told trustees the grant is awarded by the Idaho Department of Education and funds after-school programs, summer programs (a grant requirement), academic supports and enrichment for elementary and middle school students. The application is due Jan. 31 and award notices are expected in April. Reid said parents indicated strong interest for after-school and summer enrichment in a district survey and that proposed partners include Middleton Rec and the YMCA.

Reid said awards typically range from about $50,000 to $200,000 per year for a three- to five-year cycle; at hearing the board was told the district would formally accept any awarded funds in a future meeting. Middleton Rec has offered facility space and transportation, and the proposed program would include snacks and possible meals for participating students.

Trustees voted to authorize the application. The board noted that if the district is awarded funds, the board will take a formal action to accept and appropriate those funds at a future meeting.