21st Century Community Learning Centers Program Grantee Abstract

21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Program
Project Director: Michael MacEwan
149 Kearny Avenue * Perth Amboy, NJ 08861
732-324-2114
732-324-0256
Email: jrfmichael@aol.com

CCLC Sites: Robert N. Wilentz Elementary School; Anthony V. Ceres Elementary School; and James J. Flynn Elementary School

Partners: Perth Amboy Public Schools; Faith Fellowship Community Development Corporation; and New Jersey Orators

Collaborators: Perth Amboy Housing Authority

Times of Service: After School hours are 2:45 to 6 pm, M to F (all open school days)

Abstract:
The Jewish Renaissance Foundation, in partnership with the Perth Amboy Public Schools, the City of Perth Amboy, nonprofit providers, and the parents and children of Perth Amboy, intend to extend the 21st Century Community Learning Center model into the elementary schools. The Jewish Renaissance Foundation’s proposed 21st CCLC Program offers a full continuum of developmental programs that address the most critical facets of a child and family’s growth and well-being. In addition, within this program design, JRF seeks to address the most significant challenges that our children and families face. JRF integrates these new sites as an extension of the existing 21st Century CLC Program currently administered by the Perth Amboy Public Schools. The current program primarily serves grades 5-12, with Saturday programs for parents of two elementary schools. This program will enable the CCLC model to be integrated at the elementary school level. The stated vision of the current CCLC program is: “a safe haven for all children that promotes healthy minds and bodies through academic, recreational and cultural activities in collaboration with families, the community, and the Perth Amboy Board of Education”. ‘Soaring Beyond Expectation’ functions as the current modicum – this is a modicum that JRF fully intends to emulate.

JRF intends to expand the existing “Parent College” model (currently administered by Perth Amboy Public Schools) that offers high-risk families with a cadre of educational and social service opportunities, in addition to serving as a critical base for support and mentorship. The Parent College functions as a resource center for our school families to learn and access essential services, and participate in an array of educational activities that address economic and social factors, such as citizenship classes, GED prep courses, ESL classes, basic skills and literacy development, and cultural activities. The Parent College also offers a parent support group that regularly address a variety of topics related to parenting skills, home management, and overall coping and life skills, including effective methods in addressing problematic behavior and detection of potential developmental or behavioral disorders.