Today in City Hall, Mayor Edna Jackson and Superintendent Dr. Thomas Lockamy, Jr. signed a memorandum of understanding between the City of Savannah and Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools to expand afterschool and summer learning opportunities in Savannah.

“Our children are our greatest assets,” said Mayor Jackson. “Supporting our young people through innovative new programs like this will help ensure they can succeed and prosper in the future.”

The agreement applies to grant funding SCCPS is receiving through the Georgia Department of Education for 21st Century Community Learning Centers. This grant supports the creation of community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children, particularly students who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools. The program helps students meet state and local student standards in core academic subjects, such as reading and math; offers students a broad array of enrichment activities that can complement their regular academic programs; and offers literacy and other educational services to the families of participating children.

“This program will allow us to offer more positive experience for children when they’re out of school,” said Superintendent Lockamy. “When you engage in giving children positive experiences, you can change their life.”

The agreement will enjoin both parties in a shared vision for afterschool and summer learning guided by a multi-year, community-wide summer learning action plan that includes defined goals and strategies and aligns with education and out-of-school time priorities. Both parties will lead efforts with stakeholder groups that represent key sectors including city and/or county agencies, schools, funders, program providers, intermediary or coordinating body, and other community members.

As an active partner in the program, the City will contribute needed support services and resources to the learning centers program, such as utilization of City-owned facilities and assistance in hiring staff for youth programming. Participating schools will include Jenkins High School, Groves High School, Hubert Middle School, DeRenne Middle School, East Broad Street School, Godley Station School and Rice Creek School.