MONTGOMERY— Seventh graders in Decatur city schools are getting a new tool for improving math and reading skills thanks in part to a grant announced by Gov. Robert Bentley.
Appalachian Regional Commission’s territory
The $100,000 grant will help the school system to purchase 828 portable computers for use by seventh grade students and their teachers in the classroom and at home. “Nothing is more fundamental to success in school and the workplace than strong reading and math skills,” Bentley said. “Using modern technology to boost these skills is an excellent way for teachers to guide their students toward a more successful path in life.”
School system officials report a decline in attendance and academic achievement when students enter the seventh grade. The officials say that computers will keep students more engaged in their studies and help them achieve higher scores on math and reading tests and greater academic success overall.
Local funds of $189,246 will go toward the purchase of the new computers.
Congress established the Appalachian Regional Commission in 1965 as a supplemental grant program to raise the standard of living, improve the quality of life and promote economic development in the Appalachian mountain region. The region includes 37 Alabama counties.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the ARC program in Alabama along with a wide range of other programs that support law enforcement, economic development, workforce development, recreation, energy conservation and water resource management.
