Sacramento families struggling to make online distance learning work during the coronavirus pandemic now have a new free program to provide all-day structured academic support and enrichment programs at City community centers.
The Sacramento City Council adopted a resolution to establish the Sac Childcare Learning and Student Support (CLASS) program using $1.46 million in CARES Act federal coronavirus relief funding.
The program aims to support vulnerable children who are struggling with online learning by providing Wi-Fi access, additional academic support and childcare while parents and guardians work outside the home.
“We’re excited to provide this service for Sacramento children during this pandemic when families are trying to juggle so many changes, tasks and responsibilities,” said Interim Youth Division Manager Monica Blanco. “The program will include on-site certificated multi-subject teachers to support student online learning as well as offer physical activity, social and emotional learning, STEAM and academic enrichment activities.”
Students have been referred from various school districts into the CLASS program during a priority enrollment period to ensure students who are most in need of academic support were reached. A wait-list is now available and will open on a first-come, first served basis to targeted populations including low-income, English language learners and students with disabilities. To sign up for the waitlist, email Scott Jensen at sjensen@cityofsacramento.org.
The CLASS program begins Sept. 3. The program will operate Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the following locations:
- Joe Mims Jr. Hagginwood Community Center
- Oak Park Community Center
- George Sim Community Center
- Sam & Bonnie Pannell Community Center
To comply with COVID-19 State and public health orders, participants will be divided into small cohorts of students with a 1:10 ratio. Centers will remain closed to the public. Participants and staff will follow safety protocols including social distancing, frequent hand-washing, sanitation and temperature checks.
The City is also seeking Multiple-Subject California Teaching Credentialed Substitute Teachers to participate in the program. To apply, send a cover letter and resume to Monica Blanco, mblanco@cityofsacramento.org.