The
tutoring program provides one-on-one learning assistance and real-world
teaching experience for students.
Camelot Education’s Chester Upland
School, Widener University and Diakon Lutheran Services have joined forces to
institute a program that increases literacy among at-risk youth while providing
real-world training for college students.
The pilot program matches students
from Camelot Chester’s Transitional School, which accepts students on
recommendation by Chester High School for serious disciplinary infractions, to
be tutored one-on-one by a Widener University student two times per week for 45
minutes. Diakon identifies students and works with families participating in
the program.
“We’re shooting to improve literacy
in our students who have gotten into trouble and are taking advantage of a
second chance, but we hope to see academic growth in all subjects from the
students involved,” said Camelot Chester Executive Director Daniel Peticca.
The program, created by Widener
Special Education Assistant Professor Mimi Staulters and Criminal Justice
Professor Nancy Blank, centers upon mentors creating individualized tutoring
plans for each Camelot student based upon his or her needs and interests, with
the oversight of Widener faculty.
Dr. Staulters cited an example of
this targeted approach.
“One student has demonstrated a
strong ability to complete academic work, but is a bit hesitant in her
interactions with her tutors and sometimes struggles to complete tasks in a
timely manner,” said Staulters. “The tutors agreed this youth benefits
from humor and encouragement, and created a specific behavioral approach with reinforcers
to facilitate motivation.”
The program, which began in late
September, will run for ten weeks with the current group of students.
Both Peticca and Blank hope to grow the program in future semesters.
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