Meridian schools receive $200,000
21st Century grant

By By Georgia E. Frye / staff writer
June 23, 2004
Meridian School Superintendent Sylvia Autry announced today that the school district has received a $212,412 grant to provide before- and after-school tutorials for students and their parents.
Autry said the three-year 21st Century Community Learning Center Program grant will target students in West End Elementary, Harris Upper Elementary, Carver Middle School and Kate Griffin Junior High School.
The money will be used for academic enrichment activities. The grant also will provide literacy training and educational services for parents.
The money comes from the U.S. Department of Education and is distributed by the state Department of Education.
Autry said three agencies are cooperating with Meridian public schools to implement the new programs.
The Boys and Girls Club of East Mississippi will provide a teacher center, gym and library. The Meridian Housing Authority will provide space and computers for parents to enroll in GED classes. The Multi-County Community Service Agency also will provide space.
The programs will be held before and after school, and will focus on reading, math and language; music and drama; and sports, fitness and recreation.
Autry said the district will use teachers who already work in the district to conduct the tutorials, but may hire some part-time employees to help with the classes.