Bacon-District Elementary School (BDES) recently received a 21st century grant from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).

The school was one of only two schools in region 8 to receive the honor for the 2018-19 school year, according to BDES K-5 Math Specialist Duffie Jones.

A press release from the VDOE said 29 grants in total were awarded across the Commonwealth of Virginia and will fund community learning centers to provide opportunities in the academics field, enrichments and opportunity.

“The competitive grants can range from $50,000 to $200,000 and will allow school divisions, faith-based organizations and community groups to provide students with tutoring, enrichment activities that complement regular academic programs, and literacy and other educational services to the families of participating children,” said the release. “VDOE also is continuing to fund 83 programs that received initial grants in 2016 and 2017. The centers will operate before and after school, during school breaks, Saturdays, and during summer vacation.”

Jones said the BDES program was granted $178,658 per year for a three year period, totaling $535,974.

Jones said through the program, the school has partnered with local organizations such as the Charlotte County Department of Social Services, the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Department, Drakes Farm and Home, Mecklenburg Electric, Charlotte County Public Schools Food Service Program, Southside Soil and Water Conservation District, Randolph-Henry High School and John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir.

The partnerships will help provide programs for parents and students in the community.

“Parents will be offered the opportunity to get CPR certified, get their GED, and will be able to attend financial literacy programs, literacy programs, healthy eating and active lifestyle training, drug, violence and truancy prevention,” said Jones.

The VDOE release said each recipient was encouraged to involve community organizations, as well as parents when creating the programs.

“The 21st Century Community Learning Centers program is authorized under Title IV, Part B, of the federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), as amended,” said the release.

Additionally, according to the VDOE, the organization funds projects that provide extra opportunities for youth to expand their learning and will also assist students in meeting or surpassing local and state standards in their main academic subjects, not limited to, but including reading and mathematics.

Jones said BDES will kick off the program with their first event Sept. 10 at the school with an informative program, “Let’s Taco about 21st Century,” to introduce the community and students to the 21st century concepts.

The program will run from 5-7 p.m.

“This program will provide students opportunities for after school remediation, homework help, and enrichment clubs. Families of students are welcome to attend all parent events and Saturday field trips,” Jones said.