A major pilgrimage to Springfield took place this week after it was discovered that Project Success program grants all over the state were in trouble. Due to an overspending error by the Illinois State Board of Education, many districts are unable to renew federal grants for afterschool programs that often involve tutoring, as well as a place for children of working parents to go to do homework and maybe get a snack as well. Vermilion County Project Success Associate Director Kimberly David was one of many who made the trip; asking the State Board of Education to please find an alternate way to fund the grants.
Some school districts in Vermilion County that had grants expiring this year; such as Westville, Georgetown, and Oakwood; are seeing programs very much in jeopardy for the 2023-24 school year. Danville District 118, however, has two years left on the five year cycle of most of its grants. But just the same, Assistant Superintendent John Hart says he’s hoping some solutions are found before Danville needs to start planning for 2024-25.
Audio PlayerAUDIO: District 118 is not the holder of this grant, but they provide services to our students within our schools. So they, actually rent the space; but it’s very convenient. So the following year it could affect the programs at South View, North Ridge; and at Central Christian Church.
Hart says the district is very hopeful that the money will be replaced, and very concerned about all their neighboring school districts.
