The Early Learning Coalition of Lake County’s School Readiness program is presently in its twelfth year of operation. It is a program serving Lake County children, their parents and child care providers. This program assists in prevention of school failure of an at-risk population and provides intervention for the children that demonstrate delays or negative behavior that place them at risk of school failure.

Take Stock in Children's objective is to break the cycle of poverty, reduce the number of school referrals to the juvenile system and prevent dropouts. The investment in our community's youth is accomplished through mentorships and scholarships. Funds raised for scholarships to low income, at-risk students from south Lake County are matched by the state of Florida.

The program provides backpacks filled with school supplies for low income students in grades K-5. The Backpack Fair is held in Clermont and serves 850 students from south Lake. The grant will cover the cost of 400 backpacks and supplies.

The request is for Project Learn, a program developed by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and being implemented at the South Lake Unit that reinforces and enhances the skills and knowledge young people learn at school during the hours they spend at the Club. This comprehensive strategy is based on Dr. Reginald Clark’s research showing that students do much better academically when they spend their non-school hours engaged in fun, educational activities.

The overriding goal is to provide all students within South Lake County the necessary items to efficiently concentrate and excel during the school day. Back to School is COOL relies on real-time feedback from Lake County School administration and families. Many teachers have expressed frustration regarding unprepared students as it is a hindrance and disruption to their classrooms. Many teachers take it upon themselves to purchase items that students require. Several teachers in Clermont are changing students into uniforms when they arrive at school to avoid the child receiving a suspension. Six of the District’s schools are mandatory uniforms.

The grant request will provide the tools necessary to support the South Lake High School bands through the purchase of new instruments. The Screaming Eagle Band boosters also underwrite the costs for some students' participation in band programs.

The Renaissance Program at Cecil Gray Middle School recognizes and reinforces student achievement in academics and character. The grant money will be used to cover expenses for small prizes and incentives for students. The funds will also cover expenses related to award ceremonies. The school PTO will match $1,500 for the program.