AFTER SCHOOL TUTORIAL AND HOMEWORK PROGRAM

Project RICHES (Remarkable Improvement in Children’s Educational Success)

In the beginning, the After School Tutorial and Homework Program was created to provide after school tutoring and homework assistance to help students improve their academic performance in reading and mathematics. The program began providing services to elementary, middle and high school students on November 19, 2004. The tutoring/homework sessions were held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 4 – 6 p.m. at the Union Bethel Annex, 8502 Liberty Road.

Students received tutoring in the subject areas needed. They were taught special techniques and strategies for completing home assignments. The program provides a nutritional snack and enrichment activities for the students and counseling for students and parents. High school students volunteered to earn service-learning hours.

On-going sessions were held with the students’ parents to keep them informed of their children’s progress in the program. Informative parent workshops were held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Presenters conducted workshops on topics such as Study Skills, All You Ever Wanted To Know About Homework, Parent and Child Relationships, Making Proper Decisions and Family Values. Refreshments were served at the parent workshops.

At the present time, the program has a new title. It is entitled Project RICHES (Remarkable Improvement for Children’s Educational Success) After School Tutorial Reading Program.

Union Bethel A.M.E. Church has established a partnership with Scotts Branch Elementary School. One hundred students were transported to the church by October 2004. The students in grades 3 – 5 meet on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Bright Skies Smart Way Reading and Spelling Program is used to work with the students. The program is designed to help students improve in reading. Eight reading coaches teach the reading. In addition, the students have the opportunity to engage in many cultural enrichment activities, such as drama, dance, art, instrumental and vocal music. Life Skills Counselors are available for students and parents.

Parenting sessions and GED opportunities were also provided for parents. Student Facilitators were available to assist students and received service-learning hours.

This project is funded through a 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant awarded by the Maryland State Department of Education.