School system is new partner with Soles4Souls

CELINA-Clay County Schools recently received good news, as they learned they had been awarded a grant for extended learning, along with a partnership with Soles4Souls.

The Tennessee Department of Education Extended Learning Program announced the FY25/Cohort 24 Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) application submitted by the local school system had been approved to fund before and after-school programs here at Celina K-8 School. 

“With these grant funds, Clay County Schools will strive to provide a high-quality extended learning program to the students in Clay County, including before-school tutoring, after-school academic support, homework assistance, enrichment, project-based learning, and hands-on learning experiences,” local school officials said.

The 21st CCLC program supports the creation of community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children, particularly students who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools.

The program helps students meet state and local academic standards in core academic subjects, such as reading and math; offers students a broad array of enrichment activities that can complement their regular academic programs; and offers literacy and other educational services to the families of participating children.

Clay County Schools also applied for the Soles4Souls 4EveryKid Program, and was granted a partnership for Fall 2024.

The local system will receive 50 pairs of shoes to distribute to students in need.

“Soles4Souls believes every child deserves to experience the joy and confidence that comes with a new pair of shoes,” program officials said.  “While many organizations are focused on the critical needs of food and shelter, school officials tell us shoes are essential for students to succeed in school.

“A good pair of shoes can change a child’s future. Kids who receive new shoes have more confidence, attend school more regularly, and are more physically active.”

More details about the local Soles4Souls effort will be shared as information is made available.