According to the Council on Postsecondary Education, 45 percent of students admitted to Kentucky's public universities need remedial classes. In order to help young students in the state get the preparation they need to succeed in higher education, the Toyota U.S.A. Foundation recently announced a $500,000 grant awarded to Western Kentucky University.

The funds will be used to start a Math and Technology Leadership Academy. The academy will be a joint effort of the university, the Housing Authority of Bowling Green and several local schools. It will help teachers develop innovative ways to reach children and foster interest in math and technology.

"By increasing the effectiveness of teacher leaders, we believe we can better engage young students and introduce them to new opportunities," said WKU president Gary Ransdell.

Lesson plans developed by participating teachers will be used in the classroom and in after-school programs hosted by the Housing Authority. Additionally, the lessons will include components for family involvement to get parents involved in their kids' education.

The Toyota U.S.A. Foundation is committed to boosting nonprofit fundraising efforts toward education reform in Kentucky. The organizations also recently awarded a grant to the University of Kentucky to improve urban math and science programs in the state.