Staff Report

Schools in the Bell County and Pineville Independent School Districts will apply for the 21st Century Community Learning Center grants. This was announced during the respective school board meetings.

Schools applying for the grant must have school board approval before applying for the grant.

The grant can last a maximum of five years. During the first three years, schools can receive $150,000. If the grant is continued to a fourth year, schools can receive $112,000. Schools can receive $75,000 during the fifth year.

“I think that is a lot of money,” said Pineville Superintendent Terry Hayes.

There is no matching fund required from the board of education.

During the third year of the grant, schools will be reviewed by the Kentucky Department of Education to determine eligibility for an additional two years. If continued, programs must maintain the original level of programs and services to at least the same number of students.

Hayes stated there are plans to look into tutoring and summer programs if the school is granted the funds.

Bell County High School Principal Richard Gambrel stated the funds with help with student services at his school.