New program to aid Oktibbeha County

A new program designed to improve educational opportunities for students in the Oktibbeha County School District needs the help of faculty and staff members.

According to coordinator Mark Goodman, communication, the program strives to "introduce students to the cultural diversity of Mississippi State, broaden their world experiences, allow them to experience our world of education and knowledge, give them some practical experience in areas of our expertise, help them understand the doors that an education can open, and enjoy themselves in a nontraditional way of learning."

Initially, a small number of students from Moor School in southeast Oktibbeha County will serve an apprenticeship with faculty and staff members.

"To make the program work, we need faculty and staff willing to work with a Moor student," Goodman said.

To participate, contact Goodman by telephoning 325-7953, via campus mail at Mail Stop 7954, or through e-mail at goodman@ra.msstate.edu.

Prospective participants are asked to provide a brief and simple description of the way they will use an apprenticeship. Faculty and staff may set the hours, dates and duration of the apprenticeship.

"Some programs may last all semester, others for only a week," Goodman said. "For example, you could do one program on Wednesdays in November and a different one in February that lasts from 3:30-5 p.m. each day. During the school year, the hours should be after school."

Participants are asked to indicate what age children they would like to work with (K-12).

The information will be provided to Moor School director Bobbie Jones, who will screen and select students.