Washington - U.S. Rep. Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that Christopher Unit School District 99 has been awarded a $147,100 21st Century Community Learning Center grant through the U.S. Department of Education. The funds can be used in a variety of ways to support the creation of community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities for children.

"In tough economic times, federal support of education programs becomes even more critical," said Costello. "A good education is the best preparation for the future, and I will continue to work to ensure that our students have the resources they need to succeed."

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