The Better Than Ezra Foundation has teamed up with Young Audiences of Louisiana to implement an after-school program at the Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary School of Literature and Technology in the Hollygrove neighborhood. The program was designed to provide children a place to learn outside of the classroom, creating a much-needed positive environment for students after 3 p.m.

Marching band class at McLeod Elementary c/o Better Than Ezra Foundation.

The program offers 30 minutes of homework assistance along with 75 minutes of art education classes Monday-Friday and is open to all students enrolled at Bethune. Students have the opportunity to take classes in visual arts, African drum and dance, marching band and film production. They choose one subject as their focus while rotating through the other courses throughout the year.

The program also offers individual assistance in math and English for students behind their grade level, hoping to catch up to the rest of their peers. “We currently have 80 underprivileged students enrolled, with more being added every day,” says Tom Drummond, bass player of popular local band, Better Than Ezra.

“The principal and the staff there are so committed to these kids that it makes it a win-win situation where the BTE Foundation can help teachers; in turn, they’re also doing everything they can on their end to help us,” says Better Than Ezra Foundation Executive Director Delery Rice.

Principal Mary C. Hayes is happy to have the addition to the school. “Through this program we are able to engage students in a culturally-enriched arts-based program that provides a safe and educational experience for the students,” says Hayes.

A tailgate brunch fundraiser for the program will be held at Sainte Marie Brasserie on 930 Poydras St., Sunday, November 17, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., before the Saints host the 49ers. More Info: www.btefoundation.org