Spartanburg Awarded $945,308 Grant to Enhance Local Education Programs

Spartanburg Secures Nearly $1 Million Grant for Education Improvement

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The Spartanburg Academic Movement (SAM) has received a significant boost from the Department of Education, receiving a grant of $945,308 to advance educational opportunities in local communities. The announcement was made on Monday, providing early holiday cheer to those dedicated to enhancing education in the area.

What Is the Grant For?

The grant is part of the Promise Neighborhoods program, a federal initiative aimed at improving educational outcomes for children in underserved areas. The funds will be allocated over a two-year period and will specifically focus on the Southside community, complementing ongoing efforts in the Northside and Highland neighborhoods.

Who Is Involved?

Dr. Russell Booker, the CEO of Spartanburg Academic Movement, emphasized the importance of community collaboration in achieving educational goals. “I think if communities can come together with a vision and a plan, that’s where it starts,” Booker stated. SAM’s initiative involves partnerships with local schools, neighborhood associations, and community organizations, including the Mount Moriah Baptist Church.

Where Will the Funding Be Used?

The funding will support various educational initiatives targeting students in District 7 schools, which include Mary H. Wright Elementary, E.P. Todd Elementary, Carver Middle School, and Spartanburg High School. These programs aim to build a comprehensive support system that starts early in a child’s educational journey.

When Will the Initiatives Begin?

Work on the Southside initiative is set to commence immediately, with a focus on several key areas:

• Providing early education before children enter school.
• Ensuring children are able to read by the end of the third grade.
• Facilitating smooth transitions from middle school to high school.
• Offering internship opportunities for older students.
• Supporting parents through community involvement and resources.

Why Is This Important?

This grant is seen as a starting point for SAM’s broader Movement 2030 initiative, which aims to secure $100 million to expand educational opportunities across Spartanburg. Dr. Booker believes the grant is only the beginning, stating that they will develop a detailed strategy to achieve their goals and will actively seek additional funding.

Conclusion

The grant awarded to SAM reflects a significant step toward enhancing education for thousands of students in Spartanburg. As the community gears up to implement these initiatives, the hope is that improved educational access will lead to better outcomes for the children involved and contribute to a more vibrant and educated future for Spartanburg.