SAND SPRINGS, Okla. — Sand Springs Public Schools has been awarded a five-year Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Grant through the Oklahoma State Department of Education. The competitive federal grant will continue to support after-school and summer learning opportunities for students at Garfield STEAM Academy and Northwoods Fine Arts Academy.
The grant will provide $1.38 million over the next five years to help students strengthen academic achievement while participating in engaging, hands-on enrichment experiences beyond the traditional school day.
During the school year, students at Garfield STEAM Academy and Northwoods Fine Arts Academy have the opportunity to participate in Full STEAM Ahead, an after-school learning program that combines academic support with enrichment activities. Students enrolled in the program will receive homework assistance and engage in project-based learning experiences utilizing science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEAM).
During the summer, eligible students will participate in Project Summer Spirit, an immersive learning program that extends educational opportunities beyond the school year. The program blends academic enrichment with hands-on learning experiences, field trips, STEM activities, creative arts, and literacy. Project Summer Spirit is designed to help students maintain academic progress over the summer while providing engaging experiences that build a love of learning.
"The 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant has been hugely beneficial to our students and families," said Superintendent Sherry Durkee. "These programs help students stay engaged and strengthen academic skills in a positive environment. We're grateful for this investment in our school community.”
The 21st CCLC program is the only federal funding source dedicated exclusively to supporting local before-school, after-school, and summer learning programs. Grants are awarded through a competitive application process and are intended to improve student achievement by providing high-quality academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours.
Federal Funding Disclosure
This project is supported by the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program. 100% of the program costs are financed with federal funds. $300,000 is budgeted for fiscal year 2027. A total of $1.38 million will fund the SSPS programs over the course of five years. 21st CCLC programs funded by this grant are located at:
Garfield STEAM Academy at 701 N. Roosevelt Ave., Sand Springs, OK 74063
Northwoods Fine Arts Academy at 1691 Old North Rd., Sand Springs, OK 74063
For more information about Sand Springs Public Schools' extended learning programs, visit sandites.org.