SFSD Adopts Community Learning Center Model & Receives $1.2 Million Grant to Bolster Opporutnities
Exciting opportunities are on the horizon for the Sioux Falls School District's afterschool program. Outlined as two of the District’s five priority areas - Academic Success and Community Engagement – a greater focus is being placed on out-of-school-time opportunities.
As part of this work, the District has adopted the Community Learning Center Model, where students receive academic enrichment opportunities along with activities designed to complement what is taught during the traditional school day. This support will include mentoring, tutoring/homework help, science and technology programs, art, music, sports, and community service activities. Grant funds will allow more students at four schools access to those opportunities as funding will scholarship those participants. The community-based approach pairs the unique strengths of community agencies in innovative ways to enhance learning in the school setting where children and families are already comfortable.
While the goal is for expanded opportunities at all grade levels, the District was recently the recipient of a $1.2 Million 21st Century Grant to support afterschool care at four of our targeted Title I elementary schools, including Elementary Immersion Center at Jane Addams, Anne Sullivan, Garfield, and Laura B. Anderson. The additional support allows schools to serve as safe places for students of working families.
SFSD's Community Partnerships and Afterschool Programs Coordinator Inducted into Boys & Girls Club Hall of Fame
Helping to lead the charge of expanded afterschool opportunities is the Sioux Falls School District's Community Partnerships and Afterschool Programs Coordinator, Rebecca Wimmer.
Prior to coming to the District, Rebecca was the CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Midwest. Over the summer, she was inducted into the Boys & Girls Clubs Greater Midwest Area Council Hall of Fame, which honors rare individuals whose high achievements have made a mark in their local Club and have impacted the Greater Midwest Area Council. Individuals honored with this recognition are the best of the best and have shaped and inspired local Clubs in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Hall of Fame honorees have achieved the distinction of being true champions for children and have provided innumerable accomplishments and lasting impact.
Congratulations, Rebecca!
Good News Report
It was Lincoln High School's time to shine in tonight's School Spotlight! For over 57 years, LHS has been on a mission to educate all students who walk through the school doors at the highest level possible. While the building may have had some additions and exterior changes over the years, the one constant has been the quality of people who make Lincoln their home. There are currently 1,865 students enrolled and 195 staff members who work as teachers, counselors, clerical, Educational Assistants, Food Service workers, custodians, and all other related services.
One of the unique offerings discussed by Principal Raeder is a 30-minute period during the day called What's Important Now (WIN), which allows students to work on homework, get support from teachers, and participate in enrichment activities. WIN helps students to manage their time and focus on their priorities. While helping students develop the life-long skill of time management, they begin to advance priorities and focus on what they need to do to be successful in school.
At the end of the report, Dr. Raeder said they believe as Abraham Lincoln did, "That some achieve great success is proof to all that others can achieve it as well." She said all students are able to achieve at high levels in the classroom, in fine arts, in athletic events, and in life.
September 11-17, 2022
The arts are an essential part of a complete education, no matter if it happens in the home, school, or community. Students of all ages—from kindergarten to college to creative aging programs—benefit from artistic learning, innovative thinking, and creativity. Celebrating National Arts in Education Week is a way to recognize this impact and share the message with friends, family, and communities.As we know, arts learning can improve students' motivation, concentration, confidence, teamwork, and so much more.
We extend our biggest thanks to all the arts educators in our District!
If you're looking for a great meal and an easy way to give back, look no further! Next Monday, September 19th, our friends at the Barrel House are donating 10% off all sales to the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation. If you're new to the District and aren't sure what the Education Foundation is, they are the philanthropic partner of SFSD that supports students and staff at all 37 of our schools.
Stop by the Barrel House anytime on Monday to show your Sioux Falls Public School pride!
