Battle Creek Public Schools Get $51 Million Grant from W.K. Kellogg Foundation
The W.K. Foundation is giving Battle Creek Public Schools $51 Million dollars over five years to improve the quality of education. Foundation President and CEO La June Montgomery Tabron said in a press release, “We believe transformational change is needed and can only happen with the bold vision and commitment that the Kellogg Foundation and Battle Creek Public Schools are announcing today.”
Battle Creek Superintendent Kim Carter says the grant will support a variety of new programs and support top to bottom changes to support students, parents, teachers and school staff. Here are some ways the grant will support Battle Creek schools:
- Recruitment and retention incentives for teachers, as well as professional development
- A full day pre-kindergarten summer transition program
- Extended pre-kindergarten school year
- Implementation of an Intermediate STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) academy
- High school college pathways program, including an early middle college program, an International Baccalaureate program and academies aligned with fields of interest
- Enhanced academic program supports for all learners
- Comprehensive behavior education plan focused on alternatives to school suspension
- Investments in the arts and athletics
- Early literacy support personnel
- Implementation of innovative curriculum aligned at all grade levels
Superintendent Carter also said the changes are expected to help increase graduation rates, teacher retention, and student achievement in math and reading.
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder also weighed in on the partnership.
“All children deserve and should have access to a quality education in their community. As a native of Battle Creek I am proud of how the foundation and the greater community are wrapping their arms around its children to ensure their success,” he said. “The achievements of our children in school not only molds their success in life, but is paramount to the vibrancy of the state.”