Out-of-School Time: Nurturing Growth Beyond the Classroom
Fall is here, and with it, a vibrant energy to Greater Than as our out-of-school programs are in full swing. In this newsletter, we're eager to share how our school specialists foster the growth of our students beyond the traditional classroom setting.
Greater Than’s out-of-school programs are designed with a clear purpose: to bridge the gaps not met during the traditional school day and to provide students with additional academic support and a focus on essential social-emotional skills.
Targeted Tier Support Model
Dedicated to ensuring Greater Than students succeed, our tiered support model enables our specialists to assess each student's needs and intervene accordingly. This allows for the right level and type of support for every student. Targeted interventions bridge gaps in learning and help students to reach their full potential.
Connecting and Supporting Students
Our school specialists, the heartbeat of our out-of-school time, meet individually with students, providing valuable mentorship and academic support. They build confidence, encourage consistent school attendance, and establish connections crucial for a student's educational journey.
Our specialists incorporate Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) core competencies and focus on helping students develop vital social-emotional skills. This approach not only aids in academic success but also instills a sense of belonging and prepares students for future challenges.
Culturally Responsive Teaching in Action
Embracing the teachings of Zaretta Hammond, our staff and partners collaborate closely, implementing culturally responsive practices to identify academic challenges and determine the best approaches for students and their families.
Academic Support
Greater Than’s programs, such as Math Stars, are tailored to target students who just need that extra push to propel them academically. By providing targeted intervention, we are making a significant impact on academic achievement.
We have also introduced specialized after-school programs for 9th and 11th graders. These programs provide dedicated spaces for students to work on homework, catch up on missed assignments, and receive vital academic support. It's not just about homework; it's about connecting students to necessary resources that allow them to reach their academic goals and build the foundation for a successful future.
Fostering Confidence, Boosting School Attendance
The impact of our after-school programs extends beyond the classroom doors. At Alder Elementary, we witness significant growth in the attendance of students in Greater Than programs. It's more than boosting school attendance; it's creating an environment where students feel excited and motivated to attend school.
These accomplishments are possible thanks to your unwavering support. Your contributions enable us to provide students with opportunities to build confidence and pave the way to high school graduation, college and postsecondary, and career success. Together, we are Greater Than the sum of our parts.
100% of students have reported that Math Stars has boosted their confidence in math.