Congressman Cohen Announces $443,936 Grant for Memphis City Schools for Literacy Programs

“I am grateful to the Department of Education for awarding these monies to the Memphis City Schools system to improve literacy and academic achievement of our children,” said Congressman Cohen. “This funding will benefit nearly 30,000 students from kindergarten through high school by updating their school libraries with the newest technologies and maintaining an expert staff to assist students in their academic efforts.”

This grant aims to improve the literacy level and academic achievement of 29,123 K-12 students in 39 MCS schools (7 elementary schools, 15 middle schools, 15 high schools, and 2 schools serving grades 7 through 12) that have been designated by Tennessee as “high-priority” based on their failure to meet “No Child Left Behind” guidelines. MCS will expand library collections in these schools, particularly in areas of nonfiction materials; assure at least two up-to-date student computers per library; increase collaboration between librarians, teachers and administrators; and extend library hours.

Congressman Cohen added, “By giving teachers the tools they need to reach students effectively, I believe that this grant will have a meaningful impact on student achievement and literacy immediately. Furthermore, this grant is targeted to struggling schools, where it will undoubtedly have maximum impact. On behalf of 9th District, I thank the Department of Education for this funding for the children of Memphis.”

- 30 -

Contact:
Marilyn Dillihay, Press Secretary, 202-225-3265
Charlie Gerber, Communications Assistant, 202-225-3265