Afterschool Programs Focus Of Upcoming Talks

LAND O’ LAKES, FL — Pasco County Schools has announced two upcoming community meetings to help garner input on a grant proposal that would help launch STEAM-focused afterschool programs at two schools – Quail Hollow and R.B. Cox.

“The community nights are being held to solicit input on a 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant to launch STAR (Success Through Academic Readiness) after-school enrichment programs,” the district announced in an email to media. “The proposed STAR programs will offer hands-on, STEAM-focused enrichment opportunities. Services will be tuition-free for a limited number of children.”

STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) education has become a major priority in school districts across the country. The aim is to introduce children to these subjects at a young age with the hope of inspiring some to pursue STEAM careers down the road.

If the county wins the grant, the STAR programs will begin in August 2016 at both schools. The purpose of the community meetings is to gain parent input on what should be offered, the district said.

The meetings are set to take place at Quail Hollow, 7050 Quail Hollow Blvd., on Tuesday, March 1 at 6 p.m. The R.B. Cox meeting is set for 5:30 p.m. on March 3 at the 37615 Martin Luther King Blvd. school in Dade City.

It is unclear if similar afterschool programs might be offered later at other schools throughout the county.

Image via Shutterstock

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