Washington, DC (October 2, 2006) – Today, Congressman Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15) announced that the U.S. Department of Education has awarded the Region One Education Service Center, Office of Innovation Division of Instruction with a $3,768,304.00 grant under the Smaller Learning Communities Program. 

“Providing children with a comprehensive and quality education should be a collaborative effort between students, teachers, administrators and parents,” said Hinojosa.  “This grant will allow Region One to provide students and their parents with the tools and resources needed for success and a springboard to continue their education beyond high school.”

Region One Education Service Center, in partnership with the Institute for Research and Reform in Education and the Institute for School Excellence, will implement the Smaller Learning Communities-High School Redesign Project.  The project is aimed at increasing the academic achievement of 9th through 12th grade students in the Rio Grande Valley. 

The goal is to support students in achieving high standards, developing social competencies, and preparing for life-long learning.  The objectives are:  to increase overall student achievement, academic rigor, and student retention rates; to create a collegial school culture in which students, staff and parents/families feel safe and part of a community striving toward common goals; and, to engage parents in the community in school activities.

“A good education is the building block for a successful future and an overall better quality of life,” Hinojosa continued.  “Setting the bar high, and ensuring our students can not just reach it, but surpass it, will guarantee that the future leaders of tomorrow succeed and contribute tremendous amounts to their communities.”