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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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