Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) is collaborating with Volunteers of America North Louisiana to enhance student services across 14 Caddo Parish schools.
This partnership is fortified by a $75,000 grant from the American Electric Power (AEP) Foundation, initiated at SWEPCO's request, to extend the reach of the Communities in Schools (CIS) and LightHouse programs. Currently, these initiatives support nearly 7,000 students.
“SWEPCO recognizes how beneficial both programs are, helping thousands of students in the classroom," stated SWEPCO External Affairs Manager Michael Corbin. He noted, "We see this as the perfect opportunity and time to assist them in expanding the programs to help even more students.”
Reducing Barriers to Education
The CIS initiative targets key educational elements such as attendance, behavior, and course performance
Volunteers of America North Louisiana President and CEO Carolyn Hammond emphasized the collaborative impact, stating, “Together, these efforts are making a significant impact in reducing barriers to education and ensuring children stay in school."
The CIS initiative targets key educational elements such as attendance, behavior, and course performance.
Data from Hammond indicates that 78% of students engaged in intensive services have either met or advanced toward their educational goals concerning academics, attendance, or behavior.
Enhancing Academic Achievement
The LightHouse program is dedicated to reinforcing students' academic proficiency through after-school homework assistance and enrichment activities. During the 2022-23 academic year, more than 300 students in the LightHouse program achieved a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Hammond pointed out the financial challenges in funding these programs, stating, “This year we face a $2.5 million funding gap between what we receive from the government and the actual cost of our programs." She highlighted the necessity of private contributions to bridge this funding shortfall.
