High School Teams

Recognizing that 9th grade is a critical year in the life of a student, in 2008 the School District of Philadelphia initiated a special program for 9th graders who test 2-4 years behind in English and/or math. Assigned to Strategic and Intensive English and Math Intervention classrooms, students have double study periods each day for dedicated rigorous study in English and/or math. Under the direction of the classroom teacher, EducationWorks AmeriCorps members support this initiative by serving as Classroom Tutoring Assistants in 19 schools. Members work with students to bring them up to grade level through one-on-one tutoring, small group support, and general class work assistance.

However, study is not always enough. That’s why afterschool members also serve as mentors, providing students that special boost to stay in school and graduate. The members engage students in a program of team building, anger management, etiquette, and communication skills. They also conduct workshops about attending and financing college. Finally, they serve as a guide to students as they develop their own support networks within the school and community.