The program that used to provide after school tutoring, extra-curricular activities, and transportation has been canceled throughout all high schools in Osceola County as of this school year.
A fairly popular program among students, 21st Century had 80 to 110 students attending each day. From 2012 to 2013 alone, 27% of students in attendance at OHS stayed after school for the program.
The program was run mainly by Mrs. Dalton and Mrs. Woodring. 21st Century was where students who were struggling in Math, Science, and English went and received tutoring from teachers.
It also hosted activities, called projects, which consisted of events that were both fun and educational. Transportation was provided as well.
The program was cut because, after the five-year grant expired, the district believed it wasn't applicable for high schools and made the decision to not re-enroll. Now only middle and elementary schools provide 21st Century.
When asked if the school is planning on giving some other kind of after school tutoring and transportation, Osceola High School Principal Edward Jones said, “no we are not. There is no money in our school budget that allows us to provide those things.”
Therefore, students must ask their respective teachers for tutoring and if they’re not available they will point you to someone who is.
There are plans for the future, as Mr. Jones still wants to have a one-hour lunch. He believes that half an hour of tutoring for those who need it and the remaining 30 minutes for lunch will be a good way to deal with the lack of after school transportation.
One thing that is certain is that this year will be filled with a lot of firsts for Osceola High School.
