SAN ANTONIO –
A San Antonio organization is able to continue a successful teacher development program thanks to a five-year, $54 million grant.
Youth Empowerment Services Inc. is receiving the award from the U.S. Department of Education to continue their Educator Effectiveness Program.
"The EEP is a comprehensive training process for teachers and principals to become more effective educators," said Arturo Suarez, superintendent at Positive Solutions Charter School.
Veronica Champion, the principal of Southwest Preparatory School's Northeast and New Directions campus, said because of the EEP, they've seen consistent growth academically and with school culture.
"A more effective teacher in the classroom leads to a more exciting learning environment," Champion said. "Students are more engaged in what's going on in the classroom."
Suarez said his school, along with Southwest Preparatory School, George Gervin Academy and Por Vida Academy, teamed up to apply for the grant over the summer.
"Not only do the funds benefit the teachers in regards to salary, but it also provides the tools for additional training and professional development," said Jesse Villanueva, principal and director at George Gervin Academy.
For more information on Youth Empowerment Services, call 210-735-2341, or contact any of the schools directly:
- George Gervin Academy: 210-804-1786
- Southwest Preparatory School: 210-829-8017
- Por Vida Academy: 210-532-8816
- Positive Solutions Charter District :210-299-1025