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Malcolm X Tutorial Program |
GWAC has been tutoring and mentoring 5th and 6th grade girls at Malcolm X Elementary since 1994. During the school year GWAC members volunteer their time to tutor on a weekly basis. There are usually 2-3 girls assigned to each tutor. This allows for individualized attention. The girls are tutored in all subject areas, including math, science and reading. The tutors also help the girls prepare for extra-curricular activities, such as making speeches and presentations for school programs. If the tutors feel the girls need remedial help or need to be challenged beyond their homework assignments the tutors will assign them extra work. Most importantly, the tutors serve as real life role models. Some of the girls develop relationships with their tutors that go far beyond their elementary school education.
GWAC members also chaperone monthly fieldtrips that expose the girls to new cultural experiences. The girls have been taken to various plays, ballets, concerts, museums and galleries. They have also enjoyed fieldtrips to the movies, skating rink and bowling alley.
Once a year GWAC takes the girls on an overnight retreat at a member's home or hotel. During the retreat the girls have lots of fun and also learn important life lessons. They are able to express themselves through various planned activities, including attending formal dinners and making crafts.
Throughout the year the girls are given the opportunity to write about their experience in the tutoring program through various essay contests. The theme of the essay contests are based on the fieldtrips they have attended. Winners are awarded certificates and gifts.
Also, throughout the year professionals from various disciplines volunteer their time to put on workshops and presentations covering topics such as the importance of self-esteem and planning for future careers.
The Malcolm X Elementary tutoring/mentoring program has continued successfully for years because of the dedication and commitment of all the tutors, chaperones, and workshop presenters that volunteer their time. The program also depends on the funding provided through the generosity of the GWAC Foundation.
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