Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) has introduced an after-school program for historically underserved elementary school students that will serve as a model for similar programs across Georgia.
Named Grizzly Academy Dreamers, the program serves third-, fourth- and fifth-graders from Jenkins and Lawrenceville Elementary. The initiative was funded by a $1.75 million federal grant spearheaded by its director, Dr. Amber Jarrard Ebert, assistant professor of science education and secondary education department chair at GGC.
The program’s overarching goal is to create a community learning center that provides a safe and productive environment for children after school and provides resources, opportunities and services to their parents. Ebert said that student goals are rooted in academic support as an extension of the school day and include enrichment opportunities designed to bring in arts, expression, leadership and good citizenship.
“Currently, we offer STEP classes, STEAM (science, engineering, technology and math), journalism, entrepreneurship art, self-awareness, coding, drum and social-emotional learning classes during the sessions,” said Ebert.
The program is different than others because it also includes instruction sessions for parents for things like English as a Second Language, career assistance and budgeting.
“I would venture to say that what we are doing is unique,” said Ebert. “I do not know of another institution in the state that brings students from K-12 to a college campus consistently for a dedicated program. This took well over a year to plan and implement but trust me, it’s very much worth it when you see the kids’ and parents’ reactions.”
Zaira Crawford, who graduated from GGC in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in education and works for Grizzly Academy Dreamers as one of its certified teachers, said she’s already seen the program have a meaningful impact on students in the short time it’s been operating.
“Some of the…
Read the full article here
