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By JOYANNA LOVE  | Managing Editor

The Chilton County Board of Education approved making the after-school program free again this year for preschool to sixth-grade students during a meeting on Aug. 2.

Superintendent Jason Griffin brought up the recommendation for consideration again, even though a vote had failed at the previous meeting.

“After much thought and prayer, I thought it was important enough to revisit … it was important enough to the community,” Griffin said in an interview.

This year, the program will expand to include Maplesville and each of the intermediate schools (Clanton and Jemison). The program will continue to be offered at all of the schools with elementary students.

Funding for the program will come from the federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund. This funding is scheduled to end next year.

Board President Pam Price said the program had been over budget previously and could be fully funded through ESSER this year by reducing compensation to staff.

Those interested should contact their child’s school or get information about the program at orientation.

Note: This article has been updated to include how ESSER will be able to cover the cost of the program.