| Did You Know? Connecticut ranks #1 in nation as having the highest educational achievement gap between low-income and non-low income students. Of the three major cities in CT, Hartford students had the largest achievement gap in the state between low-income and non low-income students. |
A serious educational achievement gap exists in the United States that primarily impacts racial and ethnic minorities. We believe it is a moral imperative to work to eliminate this gap and mobilize the community for a sustained response to this problem.
Research indicates that reading at or above grade level is essential for children’s academic success and continued progress in school. If a child is not reading at grade level by 3rd grade, they will experience difficulties in all subject areas, which will escalate if not addressed.
We’ve taken action: 250 Hartford children tutored for 3,765 hours of reading!
GHICEJ is in its fourth year of coordinating the Education Partnership Project at the Noah Webster and Rawson Schools in Hartford. Our tutors meet once weekly with students for one on one reading and math instruction.
Tutors and students focus intensely on reading material provided by the classroom teacher and the school’s literacy specialist. Tutors are trained by GHICEJ staff, supported throughout the year and given feedback on their students’ progress from the teachers and literacy specialists. In addition, workshops are provided for parents and families so that reading instruction is reinforced in the home.
Over the last four years, we’ve seen results!
Over 100 tutors are currently serving students in both schools. In school year 2009-2010, over 250 students were tutored for a total of 3,765 hours.
- In 1st grade, at Noah Webster School in 2010, the number of students (21) falling in the “substantially deficient” range decreased by 14%. The number who scored “advanced” doubled!
- In second grade, of the 23 students receiving literacy tutoring, the percent of students scoring in the “deficient range” decreased by 26%.
- In a 2nd grade fluency test, results were remarkable: of the 23 students tutored, there was an overall increase of 245% (yes) in fluency from September to June. Fluency is measured by the ability to read a certain text accurately and quickly within a measured time period. This is important because fluency is considered an important bridge to comprehension.
Progress is steady and on-going. Literacy and math tutors do make a difference!
In addition to tutoring and sponsoring literacy events, a middle school Leadership Academy is offered at Noah Webster School where students meet neighborhood and community leaders and have an opportunity to ask questions and learn about different careers and professions that might interest them. The primary purpose of the program is to provide students with opportunities to develop their own innate leadership skills and discuss possible leadership approaches to situations they might encounter in their daily lives.
To learn more or to volunteer, call Bette Marafino at 860-233-1989 or email: bettemarafino@sbcglobal.net
