Edgewood Elementary School in Michigan City will receive close to $639,000 to fund a comprehensive, five-year plan aimed at boosting student achievement.
Edgewood is one of 14 Indiana schools that will receive more than $16 million through the School Improvement Grants 1003(g) program. The grants, funded by the Federal government, were awarded by the Indiana Department of Education on a competitive basis to support the implementation of comprehensive school improvement plans.
Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz announced the 14 recipients in Indianapolis on October 18. “As I travel the state, I see school leaders and educators working every day to improve instruction and outcomes for Hoosier students,” said Ritz. “I am dedicated to supporting the great work that is happening in our schools and providing additional resources to support our students.”
School Improvement Grants provide funding to schools that demonstrate a need for additional funds as well as a commitment to use the funds to raise student achievement. Selected schools are awarded funds to strategically implement one of six approved school improvement models.
Edgewood will use its grant of $638,884.75 to support curriculum and professional development through a program called SchoolRise. The grant will provide data analysis tools, consultants, a permanent guest teacher, culturally relevant classroom libraries, and added technology to enhance student learning and parent involvement.
“Our students were the driving force behind this grant,” said Edgewood Principal Peggy Thomas. “We are so honored and excited to receive these funds, which we believe will greatly impact student achievement, teacher leadership, and family involvement for the entire Edgewood school community.”