Staff Report

GALLIPOLIS — A new initiative between the Gallia-Vinton Educational Service Center (ESC) and Ohio Valley Christian School (OVCS) has been funded by a 21st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) grant through the Ohio Department of Education.

Beginning with the 2007-08 school year, a Program of Recreation, Activities and Intervention for Student Enrichment (PRAISE) after-school program will be implemented.

Academic enrichment is the main priority of this five-year grant with reading, literacy and mathematics intervention being the main component. In addition, students will enjoy art, music, cultural and recreational activities, character education, health and nutrition classes, expanded library hours, and science/technology programs.

Other activities will engage parent and family members.

“This will be a great resource for parents and children at OVCS,” said Dr. Fred Williams, the school’s administrator. “The 21st Century programs will compliment the educational offerings of the school and help teachers offer specific enrichment to students that participate in PRAISE. We are thankful for the efforts of Dr. Denise Shockley, Gallia-Vinton ESC Superintendent, in securing this grant.”

“A 21st CCLC is a place that offers programs and services that benefit the educational and related health, social services, cultural and recreational needs of a community,” said Larry Marr, PRAISE consultant for Gallia-Vinton ESC. “These centers serve as safe and nurturing environments where children can participate in enriching activities during times when school is not in session.

“In addition, there are many opportunities for literacy or educational services to the families of children participating in the program,” he added. “Further, dedicated partnerships among school and community-based organizations help meet the unique needs of the students and families.”

The Gallia-Vinton ESC currently operates seven 21st Century after-school programs in the Gallia County Local School District and will also open a new program this year at the Christian Life Academy in Jackson.

Fannie Metcalf, ESC consultant for elementary after school programs, serves on the state 21st Century after-school programs advisory team and routinely conducts regional training for new and existing programs.

For further information on the new PRAISE program, contact LuEllen Scouten, PRAISE site coordinator at Ohio Valley Christian School, by calling (740) 446-3074 at the OVCS High School or (740) 446-3960 at the OVCS Elementary after 3:30 p.m.