Thank you to the Amon G. Carter Foundation for a $50,000 grant toward the Phil Record Media Resource Center.
Plans for the center have been finalized and construction will begin this summer. Funds from the Amon Carter Foundation and private donors will allow for the physical renovations of the center. A campaign led by a group of Phil’s closest friends is underway to secure funds for the technology and media portion of the renovation.
Phil Record was involved in many community groups and church programs that contributed positively to the community, and one of Phil’s greatest joys was serving on Cassata’s board of directors. In honor of Phil’s great contributions and service to the school, Cassata is undergoing a substantial renovation of the library and transforming it into the Phil Record Media Resource Center.
The Phil Record Media Resource Center will enrich the educational experience for Cassata’s students and will also provide proper honor to Phil’s memory and legacy. Improvements include technology upgrades, library materials update, new study/tutoring areas and computers with special yearbook/journalism software.
Technology
In addition to other barriers to success, many of Cassata’s students do not have access to computers in the home. A paper released by the National Bureau of Economic Research in March 2010 indicates that “less than half of children with family incomes under $25,000 live in a household with a computer.” 73% of Cassata’s students live in households earning less than $25,000 per year.
New computer workstations with updated software will provide students with a technologically relevant education. Updated computer hardware and software provides students with interactive learning options and expands student opportunities to enroll in dual-credit, online classes through Tarrant County Community College. Cassata’s yearbook/journalism class will utilize the Phil Record Media Resource Center as their primary workspace. Updated computer software will help students to create more professional publications.
Materials Update
The media resource center will include access to digital books and will also provide for new library books so that students can access a diverse, expansive range of reading material.
Meeting Space
An improved library layout and new furniture will make better use of the space and create an environment that is pleasant to visit and conducive to studying. It will also be a better space for volunteers and mentors who want to help Cassata students find scholarships online, apply for college and complete financial aide forms.
