Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards Nearly $1 Million in Civics Teaching and Learning Grants

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards Nearly $1 Million in Civics Teaching and Learning Grants  Funds help districts expand access to high-quality civic learning for all students    EVERETT – The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced today that it is awarding almost $972,000 in Civics Teaching and Learning Grants to 37 school districts and education collaboratives. These grants support curriculum and professional development to further civic knowledge and skills among students. In addition, they support implementation of grade 8 and high school student-led civics projects, the hosting of local civics project showcases, participation in the Massachusetts Civics Project Showcases, and other enrichment activities focused on meaningful civic learning.  “We know how important it is to prepare students to consider different points of view and engage in civil discourse across lines of disagreement,” said Governor Maura Healey. “By teaching students how they can make a difference by working together, we will create stronger communities and a stronger democracy.”  “These funds support educators by investing in their professional development and supporting collaboration within and across districts,” said Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll. “I look forward to seeing how Massachusetts teachers use their learning to provide innovative and meaningful civic experiences for their students.”  The Civics Teaching and Learning Grants are funded through the state’s Civics Project Trust Fund and are intended to support civics instruction aligned with the 2018 Massachusetts History and Social Science Framework and the implementation of student-led, nonpartisan civic action projects as required by Chapter 296 of the Acts of 2018.  “These projects empower students as agents of change, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to address injustices and improve their communities. This grant will help provide all students with this important learning experience,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler.  “High-quality civics education bridges the gap between the classroom and the world outside the school walls,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez. “This grant will provide students across the Commonwealth with deeper learning opportunities, leveraging students’ identity and creativity to engage in meaningful civic action projects in their community.”   The grant recipients and award amounts are:   Amherst Public Schools: $11,500  Andover Public Schools: $32,000  Argosy Collegiate Charter School (in Fall River): $13,200  Avon Public Schools: $16,000  Barnstable Public Schools: $8,320  Belmont Public Schools: $32,000  Berkshire Arts and Technology Charter Public School (in Adams): $16,000  Boston Public Schools: $40,160  Brockton Public Schools: $48,000  Chelsea Public Schools: $48,000  Collaborative for Regional Educational Service and Training (CREST): $16,000  Freetown-Lakeville Public Schools: $32,000  Gateway Public Schools: $16,000  Global Learning Charter Public School (in New Bedford): $14,580  Greenfield Public Schools: $30,360  Haverhill Public Schools: $48,000  Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School (in Easthampton): $16,000  Hingham Public Schools: $13,260  Leicester Public Schools: $32,000  Lowell Public Schools: $38,500  Lowell Middlesex Academy Charter School: $16,000  Lynn Public Schools: $48,000  Malden Public Schools: $20,576  Methuen Public Schools: $42,800  Peabody Public Schools: $32,000  Pittsfield Public Schools: $14,720  Quaboag Regional Public Schools: $26,840  Quincy Public Schools: $48,000  Randolph Public Schools: $15,216  Salem Academy Charter School: $16,000  Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School: $32,000  Springfield (with West Springfield and Easthampton): $46,880  Uxbridge Public Schools: $29,600  Wellesley Public Schools: $32,000  Westfield Public Schools: $29,200