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PSS to institute an after-school learning program
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Posted on Sep 22 2000
By MARIAN A. MARAYA
Staff Reporter
The Public School System has disclosed plans to institute an after-school learning program where students at the higher grade levels will be tapped to conduct a few hours of tutoring to younger students.
Through a U.S. AmeriCorps grant, PSS is planning to establish the program by December of this year using public school campuses as community learning centers.
According to Education Commissioner Rita H. Inos, although PSS has the responsibility to educate all students in the CNMI, much of the school system’s effort is also designed to assist students who need the greatest help to reach minimum academic standards.
PSS recently received notification that its grant request of $162,000 to cover one school year was increased by the federal government to $195,000.
The federal government has approved to grant PSS the funds for three consecutive years which amounts to almost $600,000 dedicated to using school campuses as community centers.
“We’re actually extending learning hours for our students through this program. It would be an informal setting where they can be comfortable and have fun while learning,” said Dr. Inos.
Board of Education member Anthony Pellegrino asked the commissioner to tap at least three school buses to transport students home after the program.
“If transportation is provided, more students would take advantage of the program,” said Mr. Pellegrino.
Dr. Inos said she will not allow the lack of transportation to discourage students from participating in the after-school activity.
“We will provide them with a ride so they can reach home safely after the program,” she said.
Adult volunteers will be compensated for their tutoring services through the freshly approved federal funds, according to Dr. Inos.
The school system said it will work with community-based organizations to find willing student instructors.
Dr. Inos added that PSS will launch this new learning experience for the students without diverting any resources intended for basic educational services.
