Testimonials
Many people seem to have some good things to say about what we do.
One of my students has a child who has a congenital neurological disorder that affects the child's mobility. In a conversation about medical problems and remedies, Maria described her daughter's therapy and the gains she has made. In the conversation, she said something to the effect of, "Several years ago, I was not able to discuss this, and I am happy that now I can." I think the progress with her English, as well as the success of the therapy, has been gratifying to Maria. (SAS Teacher)
I had a student in one of my groups who was not well liked by her peers. But the small group tutoring and discussion group changed that - as the year went by she became an important part of the group. As her reading skills improved, so did her self-esteem! (Teacher)
There is a 1st grader who ended the year at a higher reading level than some 3rd graders. I think this has made her believe that she can do anything she tries. (SAS Specialist)
What I notice each time I work with SS programs is how the students we serve are enriched in several ways by the programs. Students respond positively to the tutoring and the recreation programs. Many of the children we serve would not have a structured time period when they are engaged in positive activities with positive and supportive adults. Through all aspects of SS, these students thrive and I have witnessed some students gain aspirations for higher education. I think that this change in outlook for students, who may not have expected more out of their lives, is one of the most valuable assets of the SS programs. (SAS Teacher)
I know this program positively impacts all children. Each child in our room has made some gains, both academically and socially. They are learning to be polite, responsible, smart children - skills they will take with them to adulthood. (Summer Assistant)
I saw tremendous progress in the Second Language learners. Their ability to communicate and describe grew daily. The ability to follow routines and meet expectations was evident more and more each day. (Summer Teacher)
With the smaller groups at Summer Scholars, children who are shy and do not normally get one-on-one attention seem to blossom and feel important. They participate more and have self worth. They enjoy their six-week experience and attend on a regular basis. They make gains especially in independent reading. (Summer Assistant)
One Spanish speaking girl was having difficulty pronouncing the letter r. Her pronunciation was so poor that is was hard to understand most of what she said thus causing her to be very quiet in class. We worked every day with OLD techniques in hopes of improvement. Her pronunciation has improved exponentially. She now speaks constantly in class and can be understood in both English and Spanish. She always looks at me and says, "Look, Mira, Roger Rabbit, Roger Rabbit." (SAS Teacher)
