Active Student Programs in Calhoun County: Shaping Futures Through Enrichment and Engagement

Calhoun County is committed to fostering student success through a variety of active programs. These initiatives aim to provide comprehensive support, ranging from academic enrichment to physical well-being, and family engagement. This commitment is exemplified by programs like "Full STEAM Ahead!" and various federal initiatives, all working together to create a supportive and enriching environment for students.

"Full STEAM Ahead!": Igniting Passion in STEM and the Arts

The Calhoun County School District has been awarded a $700,000 competitive grant to implement the "Full STEAM Ahead!" program. This program is designed as an afterschool and summer enrichment initiative for students in grades 6-9. The grant is distributed over three years, contingent on federal appropriation each year.

Comprehensive Student Support

"Full STEAM Ahead!" provides multifaceted support to participating students. All students receive academic services tailored to their individual needs. These services encompass homework assistance, tutorial sessions, remediation, and enrichment activities. The goal is to address specific learning gaps and accelerate academic progress.

Engaging Enrichment Activities

Beyond academics, the program offers engaging and enriching activities that promote science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). These activities aim to spark students' interest in these critical fields and provide hands-on learning experiences. The program also incorporates youth development and physical education activities, encouraging positive choices and healthy living habits.

Family Engagement and Support

Recognizing the crucial role of families in student success, "Full STEAM Ahead!" partners with Families First for MS in Calhoun City. This partnership enables the program to offer services and resources to parents and families of participating students, fostering a supportive home environment that complements the program's goals.

Program Goals and Objectives

The "Full STEAM Ahead!" program is designed to achieve the following goals for participating students:

Improved academic performance
Increased student engagement
Better school attendance and behavior
Increased opportunities for family involvement

Program Logistics and Participation

Students from all three high schools in the county and Calhoun Academy are eligible to participate in "Full STEAM Ahead!". The afterschool program, which began on September 3, 2019, and operates through May 2020, is located at the Calhoun County Career and Technical Center. Students from Bruce and Vardaman are provided transportation to and from Bruce High School and Vardaman High School, respectively. Summer camps are also offered, with student recruitment taking place in the spring.

Family Night: Showcasing the Program

To showcase the program and engage parents, a "Family Night" was held on November 7, 2019, at the Calhoun County Career and Technical Center. Parents and guardians were invited to observe the program in action, learn how to support their children's educational experiences, and discover the family services available through Families First.

FSA Advisory Council: Guiding the Program

The "Full STEAM Ahead!" Advisory Council plays a vital role in guiding the program's direction. The council is comprised of various stakeholders, including the Project Director, Site Coordinator, a representative from Families First, participating students, parents, community members, and private sector business partners. The council advises the Project Director and Site Coordinator on program-related concerns and suggestions, ensuring the program's effectiveness and relevance.

Volunteer Opportunities: Community Involvement

Community involvement is essential to the success of "Full STEAM Ahead!". The program welcomes volunteers who can contribute to academic achievement, youth development activities, and family engagement. Volunteers can offer their talents, expertise, and compassion to the afterschool program, and donations of incentives for students are also appreciated.

Read also: The Power of Active Learning

Federal Programs: Supporting Student Success

In addition to "Full STEAM Ahead!", Calhoun County Schools benefit from several federal programs designed to support student success. These programs address various needs, from providing basic resources to supporting specific student populations.

Title I: Basic

Title I provides financial assistance to local educational agencies (LEAs) and public schools with high percentages of disadvantaged children. The goal is to ensure that all children meet challenging state academic content and student academic achievement standards.

Title II: Highly Qualified Teachers

Title II aims to improve teaching and learning by providing financial assistance to recruit, hire, and retain highly qualified teachers and principals. The program also supports research-based, high-quality professional development activities and, where applicable, reduces classroom sizes.

Title III: English Language Learners Program

Title III addresses the needs of limited- and non-English speaking students. This research-based language instruction program at the elementary and secondary levels accommodates the growing number of English Language Learners in the Calhoun County School District.

Title V: Rural and Low-Income Schools

Title V provides financial assistance for teacher professional development, educational technology and software, parental involvement activities, and improving basic programs designed under Title I. This program supports schools in rural and low-income areas, helping them overcome unique challenges.

Read also: Grenada: Student Opportunities

Title IX: McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act

Title IX ensures immediate enrollment and educational stability for homeless children and youth. This federal law protects the rights of homeless students and provides them with the support they need to succeed in school.

Additional Initiatives and Resources

Calhoun County Schools offer a range of additional initiatives and resources to support students, parents, and employees.

Digital Device Policy

Digital devices are integrated into daily instruction in Calhoun County schools. The Student Digital Device Policy outlines the responsible use of technology in the classroom.

Active Parent

Active Parent is a valuable online resource that allows parents to access their child's school records, including attendance, grades, homework, and discipline. This platform promotes communication and collaboration between parents and schools.

Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)

The Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI) is a statewide K-3 initiative focused on developing high-quality reading instruction. ARI supports teachers in providing students with the literacy skills needed to meet or exceed grade-level standards.

Transportation

The Calhoun County School System actively recruits and trains bus drivers, ensuring safe and reliable transportation for students.

Gadsden State Community College: A Partner in Education

Gadsden State Community College, with campuses and educational centers in Calhoun, Cherokee, and Etowah counties, serves as a vital partner in education for Calhoun County students. The college offers a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for students to pursue higher education and career training. Gadsden State provides access to leading-edge research initiatives, state-of-the-art labs, and expert faculty. The college also fosters a vibrant campus life through student organizations, volunteer opportunities, and internships.

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