The University District Educational Network, a UALR initiative that supports efforts to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for students growing up in neighborhoods surrounding the campus, has received a technical assistance grant from the Arkansas Out of School Network (AOSN) Community Innovations Project.

The grant will help promote dialogue among community members on how to create the kind of community where all young people have a chance to learn – in and beyond the school day.

Through the AOSN grant, the University District Educational Network will coordinate study circles this summer in the University District, a 3.5 square-mile area in close proximity to UALR. Small, diverse groups will meet for several structured discussions about out-of-school time and present their conclusions in a Community Action Forum. The study circle model is a proven way to organize inclusive, diverse, face-to-face dialogue that leads to positive action.

The intent of this community engagement process is to develop a plan to move UALR and community partners to action as it relates to after-school and summer programming. The AOSN will provide ongoing support and technical assistance to help implement the plan created by the study circle participants.

The University District is the second community in Arkansas to receive AOSN support in its efforts to expand access to high quality, after-school and summer programs. The Lake Village/Eudora community was selected last year to participate in this national effort, funded by the C.S. Mott Foundation.

For more information about participating in the study circles, contact Julie Hall, director of the University District Educational Network, at 501-569-3187 or jchall2@ualr.edu.