Congressman Cuellar Announces $1.2 million in Federal Funds for the Poteet Elementary School Counseling Program
Washington,
Oct 16 -
Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) today announced that the U.S. Department of Education has awarded Poteet Independent School District $1.2 million for the Poteet Elementary School Counseling Program (PESCP).
The PESCP has been designed to meet the needs of elementary and junior high school students. The students will be taught alternatives to negative behaviors like violence, delinquency and substance abuse.
“I commend Poteet ISD Superintendent Andres Castillo, board members, and everyone else who had a role in obtaining this grant,” said Congressman Cuellar. “It is through intervention programs such as the PESCP that we are able to rescue many of our students from going in the wrong direction.
The PESCP has six objectives:
1. Increase the intellectual development and academic performance of Poteet ISD elementary and junior high school students by hiring school counselors, social workers and psychologists;
2. Improve students’ attitudes and behaviors by utilizing counseling services to teach alternatives to negative behaviors like violence, delinquency and substance abuse;
3. Provide all students access to appropriate, necessary and beneficial counseling services;
4. Maximize services through efficient management, partnerships and outreach programs;
5. Provide high-quality professional development for all counselors, teachers and school personnel; and
6. Increase parental involvement.
“On behalf of the school district’s administrators, teachers, and staff, I thank Congressman Cuellar for helping us obtain this grant,” said Poteet ISD Superintendent Andres Castillo. “This grant will truly make a difference in the lives of many of our students.”
