Kids in a special program at St. Joseph's School in Sharon will be able to enjoy new textbooks thanks to a grant from the Shenango Valley Foundation.

The Learning Assistance Program was designed 18 years ago for students who need extra help in reading but the school hasn't been able to afford textbooks since the beginning of the program.

Teacher Judy Mineo said the books are now out of print and the class desperately needs new books. She said she hasn't picked out the books yet. "I want to savor this moment," she said.

Parent Chris Walsh, Hermitage, wrote a grant that secured $2,500 from the Shenango Valley Foundation to buy books. Mrs. Walsh equated getting the grant with a child getting a new Christmas toy catalogue.