WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Benjamin L. Cardin (both D-MD), announced today that the Prince George’s County Board of Education has been awarded a $3.4 million Department of Education Smaller Learning Communities Program grant to improve academic achievement at Crossland, DuVall, Oxon Hill, Potomac and Suitland high schools. The grant will cover a three-year period, from July 10, 2008 to July 9, 2011.

The grant will be used to support students with summer bridge programs that will include academic and social support. During the school year, students will receive intensive support, including tutoring and computer-based academic interventions. Each school also will recruit teachers for professional development to teach Advanced Placement (AP) courses, including instructional strategies designed to prepare under-represented students for these courses. Students will receive direct support through a two-week AP Bridge program and additional tutoring and other academic supports and opportunities to take the PSAT and AP exams at no cost.

“As a member of the U.S. Senate, my goal has always been to make sure that every student in America has access to a first-rate education, so that no child or community is left out or left behind,” said Senator Mikulski. “This grant will provide a critical federal investment to Prince George’s County high schools and help support academic achievement so that every child has the freedom to achieve their dreams. I will continue to fight for increased funding for competitive grant programs like this that support Maryland schools and communities.”

“This grant is as real investment in Prince George’s County high schools,” said Senator Cardin. “Our students are our future and I am pleased that this Department of Education grant program is targeted to providing students with the tutoring and Advanced Placement services that will help them succeed and achieve.”

The Smaller Learning Communities Grant Program is designed to encourage large high schools to undertake research-based strategies in developing and implementing smaller learning environments.