U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced that the House of Representatives recently approved federal funding for southern and eastern Kentucky’s educational initiative “Forward in the Fifth.” Through Rogers’ efforts, the FY 2010 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill includes $500,000 to continue the valuable programs offered by Forward in the Fifth.

“Reading can mean the difference between a good paying job, career advancement, developing confidence to go back and get a college degree, or simply participating in the democratic process,” said Rogers. “We must continue to offer those who desire to learn opportunities to do so and Forward in the Fifth plays an important role in making these dreams a reality. This highly-regarded region-wide initiative gives educators the teaching tools to help students who are struggling or simply need one-on-one instruction. If we’re to move Kentucky forward, education cannot be overlooked.”

Forward in the Fifth, located at the Center for Rural Development, is a nonprofit, grassroots education organization, uniting parents, students, businesses and educators to improve educational success in the Fifth Congressional District. Forward in the Fifth works with the Center for Rural Development’s other affiliates in developing shared educational programs. Begun in 1986, the organization serves 41 Appalachian counties by placing a high priority on literacy education and working to improve school attendance, enhance science and math instruction, train parents in computer-based education platforms, and increase the number of residents attending college.

This legislation favorably passed out of the House of Representatives on July 24, 2009 and awaits Senate consideration this summer. Rogers works to obtain federal funding for projects across southern and eastern Kentucky in his role as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee.