Charles City schools receive after school program grants

Virginia’s State Department of Education has awarded Charles City County public schools two $188,000 21 Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) grants.

The three-year grants are used to serve students and families of the county. Director of Special Programs Dr. Patricia Alexander collaborated with nationally-recognized after school curriculum leader Global Learning to design the Children and Family Enrichment (CAFE) program model for the grant.

“These grants will provide students and families in Charles City access to learning and enrichment experiences otherwise unavailable,” said the president of Global Learning.

CAFE offers free after school and summer school programs that provide academic enrichment, homework assistance, and parental education and support. The daily program combines LitART LEARN curriculum, a nationally recognized after school literacy program, a mobile computer lab for STEM enrichment, and a range of arts-based explorations provided by a variety of program partners. Partners include Charles City Parks and Recreation, the Cultural Alliance of Charles City, Young Audiences of Virginia, and Heritage Public Library.

In addition, students will have access to trips to performance centers, recreation classes, harp and chorus classes, and other special events. For parents, CAFE arranges adult education, family skills training, family literacy nights, and home learning activities.

CAFE project will operate Monday-Thursday after school during the year. CAFE includes a three-week summer program featuring the same blend of services.

The CAFE project aims to increase reading, math, and writing achievement for 300 Charles City students by providing 420 hours of after school and summer school enrichment and academic support.