What's Happening?
Two award-winning educators, Jaime Garcia and Jaclyn Lennox, have implemented schoolwide systems to provide academic support to struggling students. Garcia, at LISA Academy North Middle-High School in Arkansas,
initiated a mentorship program where high school students assist middle schoolers in math. Lennox, at Bolingbrook High School in Illinois, helped transition to an Academic Recovery Center, allowing students to recover credits during the school day. These initiatives aim to address the ongoing educational challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to stagnating or declining student achievement.
Why It's Important?
These educational strategies are crucial as they address the persistent learning gaps that have widened due to the pandemic. By integrating support systems within the school day, these programs aim to provide equitable educational opportunities and reduce the stigma associated with academic struggles. The focus on peer mentorship and integrated credit recovery reflects a broader trend in education towards more inclusive and supportive learning environments, which can lead to improved student outcomes and higher graduation rates.
