Simon Youth Academy at Northshore Mall is making a positive impact on their community through their partnership with Welch Elementary. This initiative, begun just last year, allows students from SYA at Northshore Mall to engage with elementary students to practice sight words. The program has enhanced literacy skills for the partnering elementary students and contributed to a remarkable rise in attendance for our students at Northshore.
Impact in Action
Academy leader, Kevin Tanglis, states, “It is one of the most successful things we have ever done.” Every Thursday, students from Northshore take a bus to Welch Elementary, an elementary school that many of the current students from Northshore once attended. The partnership creates a collaborative learning environment, where students from both groups are excited to work with each other in a way that transcends traditional educational boundaries in this elective class for our academy scholars.
The Power of Sight Words
Sight words are fundamental building blocks for reading proficiency and this program recognizes their pivotal role in early education. Simon Youth Academy students provide personalized guidance to students, making learning fun and effective for elementary students. The program also helps elementary teachers as they can plan for more direct instruction.
Attendance Soars
One of the most noteworthy outcomes has been the significant rise in attendance among students at Simon Youth Academy at Northshore Mall. We know that attendance has been a struggle for Academies, especially post-pandemic. However, programs such as the sight words program have allowed students to be a positive influence on the younger students and learn the importance of community involvement.
Community Involvement
This initiative exemplifies the positive impact that community connections can have on education. During these visits, many speak Portuguese, leveraging their languages to enhance learning. By bringing together students from different educational levels, they cultivate a supportive learning atmosphere and strengthen the sense of community within the schools.
Final Thoughts
The Sight Words Program at Simon Youth Academy at Northshore Mall is more than just a literacy initiative; it is a testament to the potential for positive change when the community comes together to support education. We extend our gratitude and celebration to all involved for the great work fostering a love of learning for our students.
