Washington, DC -
Representative Gene Green and the Department of Education announced that the Galena Park Independent School District will receive a three year grant worth $595,497 from the Department of Education’s Advanced Placement Incentive Program. The program is designed to provide funding for teacher training and pre-advanced course development designed to expand Advanced Placement access to low-income students.
“Allowing students to get a jump start on their college education is a great way to get them invested in pursuing a higher education,” said Rep. Gene Green, whose district includes Galena Park. “A higher education is the best way to ensure our children and grandchildren have a promising future regardless of socio-economic status.”
The Galena Park ISD will use this money to increase the number of economically disadvantaged students who are able to take advanced placement courses and subsequently earn college credit through their performance on Advanced Placement (AP) exams. Participation in Math and Science AP courses will be encouraged via online AP courses. Teachers will receive additional training through annual development sessions and workshops provided by the College Board.
“Unfortunately, the high costs of a college education prohibit many low-income students from receiving a higher degree. Entering college with some college credits in hand will help ease the burden of courses students need to take to receive their degrees and hopefully lower their costs,” said Green. “Every bit helps make college more affordable.”
Additionally, students and teachers will receive monetary rewards for their successful performance on AP exams. Each student scoring a passing three or higher will receive a $100 stipend, and each teacher whose class has a 50 percent passing rate on an exam will receive a $500 stipend. “As the husband of a retired high-school teacher, I know how hard it is to motivate students to perform at higher levels. This grant will provide educators with the training and tools they need to prepare their students for the next steps of their education.”
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