ESP Receives 21st Century Grant
More than 500 MCS Extended School Program (ESP) students from eight schools will benefit with after school programming thanks in part to the receipt of the 21st Century Community Learning Center grant. The $464,000 grant will fund local afterschool and summer learning programs for families through the ESP program for 3 years with a primary focus on reading and math remediation.
21st Century Grants support academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for at-risk children. As part of the grant, ESP will help students meet state standards in core academic subjects. ESP also offers students a broad array of enrichment activities that can complement their regular academic programs.
“Students may qualify for free or reduced ESP programming based on academic or other needs,” says Ralph Ringstaff, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and the Extended School Program. “ESP provides a safe, educationally enriching and fun experience for students after the typical school day. Our program continues to grow in number and quality.”
The funds will be utilized for a range of programs including after school reading and math remediation and small group counseling sessions, as well as enrichments in sports, art, music, science and technology.  The grant also provides optional transportation for some ESP sites.
The 21st Century Grant incorporates many community partnerships including the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce, Discovery Center, MTSU’s MTeach Program, Murfreesboro Police Department, Linebaugh Library, LTA Depot, Girl Scouts of Middle TN, and many others.
The ESP program at Bradley, Black Fox, Cason Lane, Hobgood, John Pittard, Mitchell Neilson, Northfield and Reeves Rogers will participate in this grant. If parents have questions, they may contact the ESP Offices at their child’s school, or call the ESP Department at 615-893-2313.
Murfreesboro City Schools is a district of twelve schools committed to the academic and personal success of each child.
