MEXICO – Up to 300 SAD 43 students will be able to participate in after-school and summer programs for the next three years thanks to a federal 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant.

The district will receive $135,000 a year for three years, with the possibility of renewal for two additional years, starting when school begins in September.

“I hope this will instill in some kids the habits of study and recreation. Perhaps some will walk away with a lifelong interest or hobby. It will be a safe alternative to how some spend their time,” said Gloria Jenkins, SAD 43 curriculum coordinator.

This is the third time she has applied for the grant.

She’s not sure why her proposal was chosen this time around, although she said the district partnered with the Greater Rumford Community Center, the Mexico Wellness Center, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and the River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition.

All of the partners will play important roles in offering at-risk students in grades 3 through 8 a chance to get extra academic help as well as to take part in the a variety of recreational programs.

Although the program is aimed at that particular population, Jenkins said if fewer than 300 take part or are not identified as at-risk, other students from the age group may also participate.

Targeted students are those who are at risk academically or who have some risky behaviors, such as alcohol or tobacco use.

“We had to prove we really needed this grant,” Jenkins said.

She gleaned survey data from a variety of sources, some administered through the school district, some conducted by the coalition. For example, she said, a survey conducted last year showed that more than 10 percent of seventh-graders have used alcohol 10 or more times, and that fourth-graders average more than two hours of television viewing per day.

Other indicators are poverty levels, as determined by free and reduced lunch rates, or family income.

All participating students will be able to take part in the four-day-a-week, two-hour after-school program. Once tutoring help is completed, students will be able to take part in activities. The summer program is expected to be about eight weeks long, and will take place in a variety of places such as the Wellness Center, the community center, and in the schools.

The students themselves will determine those activities.

Jenkins said surveys of student wants will be taken very early in September. In the meantime, the district will hire a three-quarter-time coordinator, as well as up to 15 part-time tutors, coaches and activity leaders.

Small fees for activities will be charged, contingent upon whether a child receives free or reduced lunch.

Part of the grant money will also be used to send about two dozen middle school students to a summer science or leadership camp.

“This grant will continue our efforts to support students at risk by offering opportunities for healthy, safe, after-school and summer school programs for all kids,” Jenkins said.