By Andy Klotz—
Indiana Department of Education gives district maximum award
MUNCIE, IN – Muncie Community Schools (MCS) has received a $400,000 grant from the Indiana Department of Education through the federally funded Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. MCS will use the Stronger Connections Grant funding for a number of new or existing programs, including:
- Salary and benefits for one Family Navigator position;
- Creating and supporting a multi-disciplinary threat assessment team;
- Providing transportation costs for students to participate in Ball State’s College Mentor for Kidsprogram; and
- Extending summer programs.
MCS is one of just 38 Indiana school districts or charter schools to receive this award, and one of only 21 districts or schools to receive the maximum amount of $400,000.
“This is a huge boost in our efforts to keep our schools safe, provide needed programs and offer our students additional services not found in many school systems,” MCS Director of Public Education and CEO Dr. Lee Ann Kwiatkowski said. “Our Family Navigators, for instance, are doing critical work with students, some of whom have very challenging home situations. We need to do whatever it takes to keep these grant-funded positions.”
The district has six family navigators that are part of the City Connects program done in partnership with Marian University’s Center for Vibrant Schools.
The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of 2022 was created to help public schools establish safe, healthy and supportive learning opportunities and environments. A complete list of Indiana schools receiving these funds can be found at the following webpage: https://www.in.gov/doe/grants/title-iv/
About Muncie Community Schools
Serving the local community since 1855, Muncie Community Schools (MCS) educates more than 5,000 students at six elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school while also managing several other educational facilities. Through its unique partnership with Ball State University, MCS strives to maximize each student’s potential so he or she can be a positive, productive member of society. Find out more about MCS or Director of Public Education and CEO Lee Ann Kwiatkowski at muncieschools.org.
