Washington County Charter School Receives $175,000 Grant

MARINE ON ST. CROIX, MN — Start-up funding from the Federal Charter School Program has been awarded to a Washington County school opening fall 2017. Grove Elementary: A Marine Area Community School will receive the $175,000 award to support activities related to opening up the school.

Placed-based learning at Grove Elementary will include the environment, arts, history and civic involvement. And, the teacher powered school will rely on teacher expertise to select and implement curriculum, as well as assess overall effectiveness. This model supports student achievement and teachers as leaders and decision-makers in the implementation of the school, according to a news release from the school.

“We are very excited about the grant announcement. These funds will allow for the purchase of curriculum materials, hiring of school startup technical advisors, and professional development for new staff,” Lisa White, founding board member, said in a statement.

Considered as a non-district public school, charter schools can receive state general education funding but cannot levy or bond for taxes. “These resources are critical to the school’s ability to continue on a positive path to be ready to open as the school is starting from scratch,” stated Kristina Smitten, founding board member.

“The amount of support from MDE, the School Authorizer, and the community has been amazing. With this funding there is no insurmountable hurdle to our opening in the Fall. We are so excited for the future school,” stated Lisa White.

The Minnesota Guild is the authorizer for the Marine Area Community School. A community open house is planned on Sunday, May 7, from 1:00 – 4:00 at Wilder Forest: 14189 Ostlund Trail North, Marine on St Croix, MN 55047.

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