$1.7 Million Grant for Nashua’s School District

September 19, 2007

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hodes announced today that the Nashua School District has been awarded a $1.7 million federal grant. The money will be used to fund the district’s Smaller Learning Communities Program. Congressman Hodes contacted the U.S. Department of Education in July to support the grant application the school district had submitted.

“It’s kind of taken us by surprise,” said Superintendent Chris Hottel. “We’re really excited for our students, since this was written on behalf of both Nashua North and Nashua South.”

Smaller Learning Communities Program has improved Nashua’s graduation rate by 33%

The Smaller Learning Communities Program organizes students at large high schools into smaller, comprehensive academic teams. These academies have been proven to increase graduation rates by a remarkable 33% in Nashua since 1999. The funding will be used to set up smaller learning environments, increase enrollment in AP courses, and institute career and college placement workshops. Both Nashua North and Nashua South are architecturally designed to accommodate small learning communities.

“We really appreciate the help we’ve been getting from Congressman Hodes,” Superintendent Hottel said. “I was at the Nashua Adult Learning Center a few weeks ago when he announced the grant he had secured for them- so this is the second time Congressman Hodes has helped the city of Nashua and our education system. He was instrumental in getting this grant, which is one of our biggest ever.”

“I am proud to have been part of the team that got this done,” Congressman Hodes said. “I’m excited for our students and for what the Smaller Learning Communities Program has been proven to deliver. Every New Hampshire child has the right to a solid education, and this grant is a step towards keeping that promise.”

-www.hodes.house.gov