Nonprofit Mississippi News In total, 24 day cares, non-profits, churches, and other organizations across Mississippi received $5.4 million in funding to help educate and care for children aged 5 and under during the pandemic. Gov. Gov. This money is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). It enables governors to determine how best to help students, schools, and other education-related institutions affected by COVID-19. The total amount received by Mississippi was $34.6 million. Waterford.org, an education nonprofit based in Utah that has been running a virtual program for Mississippi pre-kindergartners for many years, received the largest amount. This group was awarded nearly $2 million to expand its program to almost 2,500 children of preschool age. Next came the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast, which received approximately $870,000 and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi, which received $436,000. Waterford.org was established in partnership with other partners throughout the state, such as the Mississippi Head Start Association for around $870,000 and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi for about $436,000. The program has been available to 3,639 children from low-income areas of the state, since 2016. Hadley explained that GEER funding has allowed additional students to be enrolled in the program. All Mississippi families with 4 year-olds can apply, regardless of their income. The deadline to apply is November 1. Reeves stated in a press release that Mississippi is leading the way in investing in early education programs during the pandemic. However, Mississippi also recognizes the importance of wide educational partnerships like the Waterford Upstart Pandemic Recovery Path program. “The State of Mississippi and its partner are working together to ensure that all children in Mississippi have the opportunity to achieve the same start to academic, career, and life success by providing a solid foundation through early education,” Reeves stated. The program will be available to 2,500 children between Nov. 1, 2018 and Feb. 5, 2021. Waterford Upstart, Waterford’s flagship program for home kindergarten readiness, will be available to the children through the program. The program will give access to a laptop or an internet connection to any family who needs it. The program’s reading software will be used by students for 20 minutes per day, five days per week. A program coach will be available to help parents monitor their child’s progress, and offer other guidance. Kyesha Clark, a parent from Lena, says the program has been beneficial for her 4-year old son who attends prekindergarten in Flowood. He really enjoys it. Clark, a former teacher, stated that he is learning how to use computers, including how to navigate the mouse and follow instructions. Clark noticed an improvement in his spelling and recognition of letters. She said that she gave her tracing paper to him with his name on it so he could learn how to write his name. “I believe it’s because he does Waterford every single day,” she said. GEER funding was also awarded to several early childhood organizations, including Funtime Afterschool, Preschool of Clinton, New Horizon Childcare Center, Jackson, and Save the Children, a statewide agency that provides services for children aged 5 and under. The Children’s Museum of Jackson has been offering educational programming to students in the area for many years. It also received funding to support students in Jackson Public Schools District. This district is entirely virtual. The museum’s staff knew from the beginning that they wanted to provide support for children affected by the pandemic. After discussing several options, the staff decided to create a tuition-based program that offers tutoring, after-school, and day camp services to children living in the metropolitan area. This program was possible thanks to generous private donations. We couldn’t ignore this amazing space with its great WiFi, great staff, and great educators. Garrard stated that we knew we had to be part (of the solution) and be a resource. “We had created the framework and decided that we wanted to help children with their virtual learning.” Now, with $165,000 in GEER funds, this programming is free to all 40 Jackson Public School District students. This group includes 12 schools and will receive funding for 16 weeks. The pandemic has a huge impact on students in the capital. It was a difficult transition to move from a traditional school to an all-virtual one. This was in a district with 25% poverty where students do not have internet access. Patti Reiss, Director of Museum Experiences, and other staff celebrated a win for one museum student after nine weeks of programming. Reiss, a teacher certified by the state of California, said that they learned that one third-grader was on the honor roll today. Reiss stated that there are 12 JPS schools represented here. “Usually, in a public district, who you go school with is determined by geography.” Reiss said that she has seen students from Isabel Elementary School and Pecan Park Elementary Schools discuss their schoolwork and help each other. This also makes everyone on the same playing field. Monique Ealey is the director of education and program at the museum. “You have students from academic performing arts, magnet and traditional schools and they all get the same support and resources.” Ealey stated that the museum was able purchase devices for students who didn’t have them. Ealey and Reiss are well aware of the needs of many students beyond the classroom. Ealey stated that there are children who have suffered losses in their families and may be displaced by COVID-19. She said that in addition to the academic offerings provided by the museum, which includes three teachers who are certified and two former teachers as well as a number of staff members and volunteers, their previous work with community partners like the Center for Advancement of Youth allows them to connect children with the resources they need. She said that GEER funds allow us to support children academically. “We are in the midst of a pandemic and it is much more than that.” The museum’s Launch into Learning program offers students the opportunity to attend full-day classes (7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.) or part-day and/or after-school programs. Each day, the children begin their day with virtual work. Their museum teacher assists them in arranging them into socially appropriate classrooms. In an area with limited food security, the students were also provided two meals and two snacks per day. The older children do their virtual work after lunch while the younger ones engage in museum-directed instruction. This includes Spanish, nutrition, literacy, and health. The museum’s 15,000 square foot outdoor exhibits are open for free play. Karen Cotton, mother to Jayden Brooks, 8-year old, and Adrian Brooks, 11, said that she is grateful for the program. Adrian began the program in October with GEER funds. Cotton says she has seen a change in Jayden Brooks’ behavior. He has enjoyed the ability to connect with others and access reliable internet, but virtual school is still a challenge. She said that she can see a happy side to him, which is a plus. “But school-wise… we are still working on it.” Applicants seeking GEER funding will be able to revise their application and resubmit in a third round. This round must take place by Jan. 31, next year. Parker Briden, a spokesperson from Reeves’ office, stated.