Texans Can Academies, a nonprofit organization giving young Texans a second chance at life through education, recently received a Texas 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant for a five-year program that will serve students and parents at its six Dallas and Fort Worth campuses. The grant amount for the first year is $1.4 million. Approximately 800 students and 100 parents will benefit from the programs that are scheduled to begin this fall semester.
The CCLC grant serves as a supplementary program that provides resources for after-school programs or for programs when school is not in session. Programs include tutoring, academic enrichment, drug and violence prevention, counseling, art, music and recreation activities. Families of students will also be offered educational development courses and literacy programs. “Data shows that students involved in CCLC programs achieved higher test scores in core subjects and high school students involved in after school programs improve their grades and attendance,” said Richard Marquez, president and CEO of Texans Can Academies.
“This grant will allow us to further enhance the educational experience of our students while also providing much needed services to their families.” A collaborative effort between community organizations such as Tarrant County College District, Dallas County Community College District, First Tee of Greater Dallas, University of North Texas at Dallas and the six area Can Academy campuses will be an important part of implementing the programs.
