Elementary’s GO Programers learn and grow
Becky Albrecht
Maryville R-II is very fortunate to be one of only two school districts in northwest Missouri receiving a 21st Century Learning Grant.
This grant is what funds the Growing Opportunities Program at Eugene Field Elementary School and makes the before and after school childcare there possible.
The GO Program is offered at Eugene Field Elementary weekdays between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m. and 2:40 and 5:30 p.m.
GO is more than just babysitting. It is an educational program offering many great experiences for children to learn and grow.
It’s also fun.
In general, there are field trips, special guests, tutoring, and specialized clinics to fill the children’s GO time.
Some of the more popular activities this school year include a visit by the Dome Theater, a field trip to the airport, a weekly sign language course, a basketball clinic by the high school boys’ coaches and players, and cheer clinic by the high school coach and cheerleaders.
In the past, GO participants have even had the opportunity to attend School Day at the K.
In addition to special events, tutoring and mentoring are provided. High school A+ students volunteer daily to serve in these capacities and assist children with homework and social skills.
Since most of the program’s expenses are offset by the grant, the cost per child is a very affordable — $2.50 per hour — and parents are actually billed by the minute, not the hour. There is also no extra charge for the special programming and events.
All GO kids get to participate.
In total, the grants pay the salary and applicable benefits of 24 individuals.
Mr. Dustin Piper, site director, is the single full-time employee.
In addition to her other duties at Northwest Tech School, Ms. Lori Tally serves as grant coordinator. Also, there are also two lead workers and 20 childcare providers, many of which are college students.
This may seem like a large number of people, but all are necessary. The grant requires a specific staffing ratio and on average, there are about 20-25 kids participating in morning GO and 110-125 kids participating in the afternoon.
The grant, which in total provides about $1 million in funding over five years, is very competitive, has an extensive application process, and requires detailed record keeping.
Maryville R-II is in its fourth year of the five-year grant. Next school year will be the last year, but the district is already planning for a new application.
The GO Program is an outstanding experience for kids, but also a great service for working parents.
It is one that we hope to continue.
