The Ohio Department of Education has awarded $89 million in Summer Learning and Afterschool Opportunities Grants to 161 community-based partners. The Department received more than 700 applications from across the state. Awardees will use these funds to create or expand out-of-school time services that address the academic needs and overall well-being of students most in need of services as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
These federally supported COVID-19 relief grants focus on providing direct services for Ohio students who experienced greater disruptions to learning and did not engage consistently in school during the pandemic. Organizations that are receiving funds include community centers, colleges and universities, faith-based organizations, arts centers, neighborhood outreach centers and youth activity centers.
Marion City Schools, in partnership with the YMCA of Marion County, will provide:
- Provide opportunities for academic enrichment to assist students in meeting the state academic standards;
- Offer students access to a broad array of additional services, such as those that focus on youth development, social-emotional learning, civic engagement, and nutritional and physical health; and
- Offer adult family members of program participants opportunities for educational development and engagement in their children’s education.
This is a free program that allows students and families to access academic tutoring, homework help, adaptive software, and college and career exploration opportunities. The Afterschool Create Program fosters positive youth development and engages families in exciting activities kits along with exclusive access to other community programming throughout Marion.