The Net Resource Foundation will begin its after-school program for students on Sept. 13. The program is operated out of the Westside Baptist Church, 4001 Hughes Ave., and serves students in South Chattanooga. Free for students, the program offers engagement activities and tutoring. Executive Director Raquetta Dotley is hiring a program coordinator and two program assistants to meet the anticipated demand. Applications for employment and for parents to sign up can be found online at thenetresourcefoundation.org.
The Net Resource Foundation started the after-school program in 2011 for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. The after-school program lasts from 3:30-6 p.m. The program provides free transportation from the schools to Westside Baptist Church, in addition to healthy snacks. Up to 30 students can apply for the opportunity to join the after-school program.
Ms. Dotley says students break out into small groups when they get to the church to focus on homework and tutoring. She says her favorite part of the program is the engagement activities because it gives students the opportunity to learn something new. “Our after-school program is very intentional. We want to diversify what students are learning by engaging them in the community. They meet elected officials, cook, garden and learn about the environment. It’s rewarding watching the students learn and grow.”