CONGRESSMAN COSTA ANNOUNCES U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION GRANT FUND

FRESNO, CA - Citing growing concern for creating an environmentconducive to learning, Congressman Jim Costa (D - Fresno)announced today that the HanfordElementary SchoolDistrict will receive $391, 104 from theElementary and Secondary School Counseling Demonstration Program. This grant isunder the auspices of the U.S. Department of Education with the purpose ofestablishing or expanding counseling programs, and will be provided over athree-year period.

"This fund will help to improve the quality andavailability of counseling services in the district," Costa stated, "as well asprovide students with efficient mental health care resources."

The Elementary and Secondary School CounselingDemonstration Program provides funds to develop and implement viable andeffective counseling programs for elementary and secondary school students."The grant provided could be used to hire counselors, social workers andpsychiatrists as well as improve current counseling services that can cater tothe different needs of the students," Costa explained. The goals targeted forthis program are students' academic performance, attendance and social skillsdevelopment

"This grant will provide the tools necessary forteachers, counselors and parents to address the mental health needs of studentsand, consequently, improve performance," Congressman Costa concluded.