Every student at Atlantis got a new Chromebook to aid in remote learning
Atlantis Charter School received a $10,000 grant from Bristol County Savings Bank to cover some expenses brought on by the pandemic. School districts across the country are trying to balance strained budgets and many are applying for grants and other financial assistance.
Atlantis kindergarteners attended class in person during the fall
The Bristol County Savings Charitable Foundation (BCSCF) typically awards grants to non-profits in the communities it serves twice a year. This year, due to the ongoing pandemic, BCSCF temporarily shifted resources to support community-based organizations providing resources and services at the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic and those that are disproportionately impacted by coronavirus and the economic consequences of the outbreak.
“Support from partners like Bristol County Savings Bank is critical as we continue to face unprecedented challenges brought on by this pandemic,” said Robert Beatty, executive director of Atlantis Charter School. “This funding will not only to help us meet the educational needs of our students, but to support their social-emotional needs as well.”
The funds will be used for grab ‘n go meals and technology to support hybrid and remote learning at Atlantis.
“When COVID-19 hit we knew we had to respond quickly and be there for our community partners, like Atlantis Charter School, when they needed us most,” said Pat Murray, President of the Bristol County Savings Charitable Foundation and President and CEO of Bristol County Savings Bank. “We provided direct support to the school to help address a variety of unexpected but critical needs, including in-person safety measures and technology assistance for remote learners.”
Grades K-1 received tablets, while grades 2-12 received laptops
Atlantis is currently operating 100 percent remotely but plans to reintroduce some in-person programming this month beginning with kindergarten. In the meantime, teachers and staff are focused on offering a top-notch remote learning program to all students, ensuring connectivity for all households, and meeting basic needs for those who are experiencing financial hardship due to new unemployment or illness.
Masks, social distancing and dividers were among the safety measures taken
This is the fourth consecutive year Atlantis has received a grant from the BCSCF. Atlantis received a $10,000 grant in 2019, a $5,000 grant in 2018 and a $7,500 grant in 2017. Funds from those grants were used to purchase new technology in the Arts, Culture & Design Academy.
The latest donation is part of $323,088 in grants awarded by the BCSCF to 45 organizations in the communities it serves. Since the BCSCF was formed in 1996, the Foundation has awarded more than $23 million in grants to local 501 (c)(3) organizations. These grants support the economic and social well-being of the people and institutions in Southeastern Massachusetts and Northern Rhode Island.