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April 2016
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Math Homework? No Problem!
Math Homework? No Problem!
Published: April 14, 2016
Author: Nyasia Manning
Our AmeriCorps Vista Volunteer Nyasia caught up with 4th grader Kayla about how Homework Club has helped her become more disciplined in her work at home. Homework Club is provided through United Way's partner Moravian College's America Reads Program.
Kayla, 9
Favorite Book: The Ugly Truth
William Penn Elementary School
is one of the
United Way’s Community Schools
in the Lehigh Valley serving 245 students in the Bethlehem Area School District. Lead Partner, Moravian College, helps William Penn engage over 160 students in enriching activities including after school programs, physical education and academic interventions.
Recently I spoke with 4th grader Kayla about Homework Club, an after school program provided through Moravian College’s America Reads Program. Homework Club offers William Penn students support and mentorship through academic and social engagement. Kayla has been part of the program for two years. When I asked why she initially joined Homework Club, Kayla responded, “I couldn’t get my homework done at home because it was too hard for me and my mom doesn’t really understand it either”.
Homework Club meets every Tuesday and Thursday during the school year. This program has had a significant impact on Kayla’s academic performance. She understands the material better and feels more confident in the subject matter. Kayla explained, “I have two older siblings but they are too busy to help me. I understand math way better now. I always get help from the Moravian tutors.”
Although Homework Club only meets two days a week, Kayla has become more disciplined in completing her homework at home. Kayla shared, “Before it was hard for me to do my homework alone, but I’m better at it now. I can do it at home and understand it. I go outside to play when I finish.” Kayla exudes a confidence about herself and she is proud of how well she does her homework. That confidence is thanks to the help she received over the course of the last two years. Kayla remains extremely thankful to one person in particular, William Penn’s Community School Coordinator, Miss Hockemeier. “Thank you Miss H. for giving me that paper to join Homework Club.”
Comments
United Way GLV
Peter, Thank you so much for weighing in on this. Homework is always a hot topic and some people share your opinion. In this case Homework Club is more than just “homework”. It’s an opportunity to tutor kids who really need extra help. But most importantly connects them with an adult who believes in them and supports them. We have stats that support this and the good news is its working! Thanks for taking the time to weigh in on this important topic. :)
4/19/2016 4:25:33 PM
Report abuse
Peter Crownfield
This is a great story, but all the studies show that homework in elementary school is counterproductive for most students, that it actually tends to reduce learning and the more-limited achievement measured by standardized tests.
4/19/2016 6:22:47 AM
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Education
United Way Community Schools
William Penn Elementary School
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