Archive: Around Town

Spencer, NY - Congressman Tom Reed stopped by the Spencer-Van Etten Middle School Wednesday and spoke with students and staff about the Parents, Afterschool, Volunteers, and Enrichment (PAVE) program which works to boost confidence and inspire future aspirations through a fun and creative learning environment.

"Our future community leaders deserve a fair opportunity to receive the best educational programming to help them succeed," Tom said. "We care about providing support to after school and summer programming which 21st Century Community Centers brings to our schools and applaud the work of the administrators, teachers and parents who ensure students have a safe and fun learning environment."

"Spencer-Van Etten Middle School is excited to welcome Congressmen Reed and show him all the terrific components to our PAVE program," Spencer-Van Etten Middle School Principal, Brandon Foley said. "PAVE provides academic support, enrichment opportunities and other fun activities that keep our students safe and eager for the next day."

"The PAVE program is for the students not to just work on academics, but gain socialization skills that some children do not get in today's world," PAVE Director, Adam Park said. "We bring fun interaction, while giving them a safe atmosphere to express each individuals personality."

"21st Century Community Learning Center programs provide more opportunities for learning through engaging, hands-on activities, give working parents peace of mind, and keep youth safe during peak hours for risky behaviors," New York State Network for Youth Success Executive Director, Kelly Sturgis said. "The Network for Youth Success thanks Congressman Reed for highlighting the importance of 21st Century Community Learning Center programs through his visit to the program at Spencer-Van Etten Middle School."

21st Century Community Learning Centers are open after school and during the summer. These centers provide additional educational resources to families, educational enrichment activities that complement what students are already learning during regular school hours and teach valuable life skills. This year, Congress provided $1.2 billion in funding for this program.

v14i39