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This grant request is TOP Priority for the Club -
We have assessed certain needs within our local community and found that literacy for grades Kindergarten through 3rd has become increasingly difficult. Beginning in the 2013-2014 school year, 3rd grade students, in the state of Arizona, will need to pass a literacy test to be able to advance on to the next grade (Article attached).
We would like to support a local Title 1 elementary school - Thompson Ranch, within the Dysart Community School District in El Mirage, Arizona. The Sun City Rotary Club currently support a Jr. High Interact Program through Thompson Ranch (grades K-8). Over 80% of their students are considered lower income and qualify for decreased or free meals and school items. Due to budget restraints from both state and federal funding, the library is not able to meet the demand for lower school books, while testing standards for those students has increased. We would like to use the funds to purchase 150 (or more) books for their library specifically geared towards K-3rd grade and the school's before and after school programs to support beginning reading skills. The books will reach an average of 800 students per year, every year. We believe that this is a cornerstone for the student's future growth in all areas.
Non-financial participation - The Thompson Ranch Elementary Jr. High Interact Club will volunteer time with the lower grades by reading the books to them. Our local club has agreed to volunteer in the library during the K-3 tutoring and learning hours. We will help read to the children and tutor at different times throughout the year.
Publicity - We have confirmed with the librarian that the school will host an open house thanking Rotary for their contribution, there will be a plaque in the library and an article will be written in the local papers highlighting the grant together.
This project will be completed by September of 2013, and serves as a brand new project. It is not already in progress or started at this time. No funds have been committed to this project, and the librarian will work with any amount received. We have found a private donor/club member who will be granting $750.00 to fund the 25% matching contribution. We also believe this will be a lasting project. The library has committed to repairing and restoring the books, using them within the district and helping students for years to come. We also believe that by helping the students learn to read, we are helping a generation of lower income families learn, grow and have a higher chance of success in school, future careers and community.
Please note: Our club has submitted our Memorandum of Understanding and does current meet the qualifications to receive a District Grant.
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