The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District was one of 84 districts out of 461 applicants nationwide to be awarded a $50,000 Smaller Learning Communities Planning Grant from the United States Department of Education. A rigorous review of the District was conducted by three peer panels composed of teachers, administrators, community-based organizations, businesses, researchers, and evaluators in the educational and social service areas.

The Smaller Learning Communities Planning Grant provides funding for schools to plan, develop, and implement smaller schools within large high schools of more than 1,000 students. The grant focuses on Santa Monica High School with an enrollment of 3,000+ students. The $50,000 grant will be matched with state funds. Kirsten Hibert, Co-Principal of SAMOHI, will be the Project Director.

Research indicates that a school's size may effect student learning and success. Smaller schools can result in students experiencing a greater sense of belonging and satisfaction which results in a decrease in dropout rates, an increase in graduation rates, and an increase in student attendance. Increased personal connections between teachers and students reinforces the success of the grant's major goal - increased student achievement.

To find out more information about this grant, contact Assistant Superintendent, Sue Gee at 310-450-8338, ext. 288. Also, visit the District's website at www.smmusd.org.