By Kynedei Hobbs, Fox23 News
MCALESTER, Okla. — Hundreds of McAlester students are gaining more than extra class time thanks to a new federal grant that’s expanding learning opportunities before school, after school and throughout the summer.
The McAlester School District was recently awarded the 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant, allowing Parker Intermediate Center and Randy Hughes Middle School to offer extended academic and enrichment programs focused on reading, math, STEM, fine arts and student wellness.
District leaders said the program is designed to support students academically while also giving them a safe, welcoming space to learn, grow and connect with their community.
“It’s a lot of students that may not necessarily have places at home, whether it’s not sort of a steady home environment or maybe not necessarily the best environment at home,” said Brie Matthews, the Cultural and Community Service Coordinator for the district. “We provide them enrichment activities for afterschool programs.”
The grant supports these additional programs using data-driven, evidence-based instruction paired with hands on learning experiences.
Weekly themes and enrichment activities encourage academic growth, cultural awareness, critical thinking and healthy habits.
In addition to tutoring and academic support, students can participate in STEM clubs, sewing clubs, wellness activities and fine arts programming all aimed at improving attendance, behavior, engagement and overall academic success.
One of the program’s most meaningful initiatives so far is the creation of Little Free Libraries, which are student-built book boxes placed throughout the community and stocked with books for all reading levels.
The project comes at a crucial time. McAlester’s public library is undergoing renovations, which limits access to books, especially for students reading above or below grade level.
“A lot of our kids just don’t have that opportunity to get their hands on some of these books. We have kids who may have a first grade reading level all the way up to a high school reading level. They need access to books at their level.”
Beyond academics, Matthews said the grant is helping students see themselves as leaders and contributors within their community.
“Our kids are realizing they have a voice. They’re involved in the community and they’re seeing they can make a difference.”
District leaders explained this is just the first year of the program and there are plans to expand to additional schools in the future.
As the program continues to grow, educators hope it will keep opening doors, not just to learning, but to confidence, creativity and connection for McAlester students.
Community members interested in supporting the program can donate items such as books, sandpaper and gloves. To find information on how to get involved, you can reach out to Matthews on her Facebook page here.
