MERRILL, Wis. (WSAU) – Students at Jefferson Elementary in Merrill will be getting a major after school program starting next year.

The school has received a recurring $100,000 grant from the Department of Public Instruction as part of an effort to create a long-term afterschool program for students. Interim superintendent Bruce Anderson says it's a great help to the district. “Any time you put in a grant, it's all about 'how is it read' and we were fortunate enough to be one of those named.”

The five year program will also be able to be tailored to the students each year, and Anderson says that's what makes it special. “First graders coming in to Jefferson will be able to have this program throughout their entire elementary school experience.”

The grant program from DPI is designed to offer support a number of activities, including tutoring, mentoring, homework help, hands-on learning, community service and more. Students will also have a safe place to go after school while their parents are still at work.