21st Century Community Learning Centers

 

Where can a child go after school that is supervised, safe, drug-free and relatively low in cost?  This is a questions asked repeatedly by parents everywhere.  Studies have shown that after-school learning centers that are located in the child’s school enrich the child’s educational, as well as recreational, experiences.  To tap into this resource, the Nashua School District applied for, and was awarded, a national demonstration grant to enable them to put into place programs that benefit the educational, social, cultural, and recreational needs of the community.

 

The Director of the 21st Century Grant, John Cepaitis, has been recruiting several local artisans and teachers to develop programs that will provide extended-day enrichment programs and promote academic achievement.  He has also been working hand-in-hand with many of the local community agencies, such as the Boys and Girls Club, the YMCA, Girls, Inc., Adult Learning Center, UNH-Cooperative Extension, and the Nashua Parks and Recreation Department Additionally, partnerships with some of the local colleges and universities have also been established.

 

Currently, the following six targeted Nashua elementary schools offer several programs:

The four secondary schools, Elm Street Junior High, Fairgrounds Junior High, Pennichuck Junior High and Nashua High School will be working to establish programs this fall.

All programs offered by the 21 Century Program take place in these targeted schools during after-school hours or vacations.  Parents should be aware, though, that these programs are not be confused with the after-school programs currently being offered by the Adult Learning Center (known as The Adventure Club).  Students are invited (and encouraged) to participate in courses in both programs.  There is a minimal fee for each 21st Century Grant Program of $15.00 for each course.  Generally, the courses are designed to be one-hour and held one day a week for seven weeks. Students enrolled in the Adult Learning Center’s Adventure Club will have one 21st Century Program waived each day.

 

Since there are many programs offered and these programs vary during the year, each participating school has its own Site Coordinator.  If you are interested in having your child attend one of the programs, or if you are a professional who is interested in presenting a program, please contact the Site Coordinator (not the school’s main office), as follows:

The Nashua School District is proud to be such an active participant in this project.  With your help, we look forward to a future of children with high academic achievement, self-esteem and positive attitudes!