PINEVILLE — The Bell County Board of Education was presented with a check Monday for $61, 700 for a service-learning grant from State Farm.

The State Farm Youth Advisory Board (YAB), a group of 30 students aged 17-20, chose Bell County Board of Education as one out of 68 organizations to receive the grant. The YAB received over 300 requests for the grant from organizations in both the U.S. and Canada.

“The Bell County Board of Education’s program will provide learning for teachers and students while meeting a community need by extending learning beyond the classroom walls, “said Andrea Hoehne, State Farm Insurance public affairs specialist.

According to Bell County Board of Education Grant Writer Gina Johnson, the goal of the grant is to close the achievement gap through “Innovative Arts” projects in the schools. The grant will give students the opportunity to experience the four art disciplines: dance, drama and theater, music and visual arts.

Since the grant is a service learning grant, “Innovative Arts” will combine instructional experiences with service learning to provide learning for teachers, students and the community.

Grant monies will also provide professional development opportunities for teachers focusing on strategies and leadership.

“Professional Development will provide teachers with the tools for improved instruction that will unlock and embrace student strengths and interest,” said superintendent George Thompson.

Also incorporated will be the use of different learning styles to help create an appreciation of art.

Thompson also said, “this project will influence and increase awareness that will create structural long-term change in school curriculum and promote students success among under served population.”

According to a press release from State Farm, the State Farm Youth Advisory Board leads and oversees “this $5 million/year signature service learning initiative. The Youth Board identified issues, issued competitive grants and will now provide technical assistance, communication and oversight to site grantees.”

Hoehne said, “State Farm supports service-learning because it combines service to the community with classroom curriculum in a hands-on approach to mastering subject material while fostering civic responsibility. The state Farm Youth Advisory Board is a prime example of State Farm’s commitment to education, our community and our youth.”

The grant was presented to the Board of Education to use throughout the district in grades K-3. For more information about the project and other projects funded by the State Farm Youth Advisory Board visit www.statefarmyab.com.

Andrea Schneider is a Staff Writer for the Daily News. She can be reached via e-mail at aschneider@middlesborodailynews.com.

Photo: Justin Mayes and Earl Swanner, local State Farm agents, presented Superintendent George Thompson and Grant Writer Gina Johnson with a check for $61,700 for the service learning grant on Monday. Also at the check presentation were State Farm Corporate Field Rep Susan Richardson and State Farm public affairs specialist Andrea Hoehne. (ANDREA SCHNEIDER/Daily News)