Bellefontaine Middle School was recently awarded a renewal grant from the Ohio Department of Education.

For the second straight year, BMS is a recipient of the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant.

This year’s grant is worth $200,000.

The grant focuses on learning opportunities outside the regular school day.

The Ohio Department of Education reviewed 145 new applications through a comprehensive peer review process. Priority was given to programs that serve students in rural districts.

Bellefontaine Middle School guidance counselors Julie Kurtz and Natalie Collins co-coordinated the grant.

The grant will fund BMS+, which will offer before and after school programming.

The program will be Monday through Friday morning from 6:45 to 7:35 for homework help.

After school programming will be Monday through Thursday afternoon from 2:35 to 4:35.

The after school portion will offer a snack, homework help, enrichment, and specialized assistance in math and reading.

The free program is expected to:

- Increase reading and math achievement

- Promote positive youth development in alignment with the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) standards

- Encourage parents, family, and community involvement

- Provide a safe and structured before and after school program

- Offer academic enrichment and tutoring by trained teachers and staff

Transportation is provided and students can earn incentives for attendance.

You can enroll on the middle school website at http://ms.bellefontaine.k12.oh.us/

Natalie Collins touted the impact of last year’s grant. She said, “We had many students improve their test scores, including math. We also gave students a lot of fun experiences outside of school.”

BMS+ offers enrichment in math, reading, youth development, and family engagement.

Last year, the grant only offered after school opportunities.

Funding for the grant is allocated over a 5-year cycle.