BCSC and city look to continue partnership

The Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation is likely to continue its partnership with the city of Columbus with efforts to help students prepare for life after the classroom. The city’s redevelopment commission unanimously approved a resolution to provide a workforce development grant of $750,000 to BCSC out of local tax-increment financing funds during its meeting Monday afternoon.

The funding will benefit iGrad and the school corporation’s STEM programs. iGrad is designed to help at-risk students meet graduation requirements and move onto post-secondary education or into the workforce. STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Funds are used to broaden and encourage learning and skills in these areas.

The funding will also aid in transition planning efforts for special needs students. This includes post-secondary career plans, including paid work experience and training. Superintendent Dr. Jim Roberts says transition planning efforts are paying dividends.

Roberts adds that students aren’t the only beneficiaries.

Roberts says local support is critical for BCSC to fulfill its mission of preparing the next generation.

The redevelopment commission voted unanimously to approve the request. The city council will need to give its approval before the money can be granted. That’s expected in the coming weeks.