Carney launches grant program to support disadvantaged students

Gov. John Carney announced Tuesday that Delaware schools will be able to apply for a shared $1 million in funding to offer additional support to low-income students, students chronically exposed to stress and trauma, and English Language Learners. 

The relatively small investment stands in contrast to $26 million in education cuts passed by the General Assembly earlier this month. Carney's office says the grants will help Delaware identify and incentivize schools that implement proven strategies for helping disadvantaged students succeed in the classroom. 

MORE:School districts hustle to finalize budgets, accommodate state cuts

Through Sept. 5, school districts and charter schools can apply for up to 10 competitive grants through the Delaware Department of Education. Schools may receive a maximum of $350,000 to support programs in the 2017-18 school year.

“We have students in Wilmington and across our state who are affected by significant amounts of trauma and stress in their lives, and we have to do more to support them, help them thrive in school and prepare them for long-term success,” Carney said in a statement. “That’s what this new program is about – providing effective support for Delaware students who need it most." 

STORY:Christina district to vote on alternative school contract

STORY:Students asked to compete as 'cyber protection agents'

Carney pledged last week that he would take decisive action over the next year to address Delaware’s achievement gap, and earlier this month he announced Dorrell Green, a longtime Wilmington educator, would lead a new Wilmington-based office to support teachers and students in Wilmington’s neediest schools, as well as schools serving at-risk students statewide.

In considering applications for the grants, the Department of Education will give preference to school-level initiatives, rather than broader district or organizational programs, Carney's office said. Applicants must outline a detailed plan for how funds will be used — and grant recipients will be required to provide information on the outcome of the support, in an effort to showcase what is working.

Superintendents will meet with Education Secretary Susan Bunting next week to ask questions and discuss the grant process. Grant awards will be announced in September. 

“We know those educators who work most closely with our children know best what supports are needed for their children and community,” Bunting said in a statement. “This is a chance for local leaders to design programs and supports that meet those needs and for us to learn from their work to better support other children in our state with similar challenges.”

Looking for more education news? Visit http://www.delawareonline.com/news/education/.