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 Libraries at
middle and high schools around the District are
experiencing increased traffic this year. Often viewed as a time exclusively for under
and over achievers, after school hours at libraries and commons are now filled with
students of all abilities thanks to ISF funded After School Homework
Labs.
Middle and High School Directors of Education, Ron Thiele
and Mike Gallagher approached ISF for funding of the Labs early in 2007. Their goal was to provide a supervised place
where students at all levels could work on homework, collaborate with
peers and access their schools' learning resources.
Said Gallagher, "The
pace at which classroom instruction moves often leaves students needing
additional time with a knowledgeable individual. It is imperative for
students to 'keep up' with the flow of information, concepts and
assignments in each curricular area. To fall behind can be devastating
and overwhelming."
In their presentation to ISF, Thiele and Gallagher
stressed the importance of participation by certified staff from each
school to ensure that those assisting students will be
familiar with class expectations and protocols.
In May 2007, ISF approved grants of $25,000 for After
School Homework Labs at middle schools and $30,000 for Labs at high
schools and PCFC. The Homework Labs debuted in September 2007.
Initial reports are encouraging. Teachers at Issaquah High School have
found that the service is helping to level the playing field for all
students. They find their Lab populated by students working on college
essays, test preparation and AP classwork. At
Skyline, students receive help with humanities, science and math as
well as study skills, courtesy of workshops conducted by the
counseling department. After School Labs at Liberty are providing students
with assistance in math, writing, English and science.
Most promising is the cultural shift that is
occurring in the schools. After school assistance is being
viewed as resource for everyone--not just struggling students. Students
and staff are discovering that the comprehensive services the
After School Homework Labs provide are an essential element of success
for the 21st Century school.
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