The more than two-million dollar project aimed at improving in and after school programs at Faine and Grandview Elementary schools is still in its beginning stages.

"When is it going to start?" is a question that Faine Principal Deloris Potter has heard often.

The answer is that it all has started, at least in planning. The grant money will allow the schools to provide things never conceived in the past, such as after school academic help and music and art projects.

Both schools are employing full-time program specialists to work directly with curriculum. Also facilitators will be hired to reach out to volunteer’s in the community and parents to improve involvement.

"Anytime you get extra help or extra funding, says Grandview Principal Todd Weeks.”Whether it be volunteers, certified personnel, support personnel, you can provide opportunities you can't provide during the normal school day."

"It's going to make them better achievers," says Faine Principal Deloris Potter. "It is going to help with behavior problems if there are any, help build self-esteem, and build character."

Both Potter and Weeks hope the addition or personnel and programs lead to higher academic achievement. Currently 95% of the students at the two schools are living in poverty.