Achievement Snapshot #1
An Educational Transitional Specialist has been assigned to work with a select group of sixth grade students throughout the district to provide a seamless transition to El Roble Intermediate School. Students meet with the Specialist weekly to discuss organizational skills, good study practices and behavior management techniques. Although many students continue to benefit from this program, one student’ achievement stands out.

Mary had a difficult time adjusting to El Roble despite the efforts of the Specialist and the sixth grade teacher. Her attitude was poor and her work habits were worse. She entered El Roble intent on disrupting the learning environment within and outside of the classroom. Mary received many referrals to the office and her first report card reflected a grade point average of 1.5. Our Specialist had a conference with Mary to discuss her grades. Soon, there was a noticeable change in Mary’s attitude and productivity. She began completing her class work and homework; there were no more referrals to the office. Our staff began acknowledging Mary for her success. Her GPA soared to 3.3 and she earned S’s and O’s in citizenship. This remarkable transformation is due to the integrity of the program and the desire of Mary to improve her educational achievement.

Achievement Snapshot #2
The Homework Helpers program identifies students who would benefit from a structured after school homework program. El Roble teachers, volunteers from the community and a high school student meet every Tuesday and Wednesday to work with this core group to improve their study habits and organizational skills, thus improving their grades. There are satellite sites working with El Roble students throughout the community.

John initially balked at the idea of staying after school for extra help. He much preferred to play football or hang out with friends. After a few weeks of resistance, he began to gravitate to the idea that completing his homework under the facilitation of a tutor was better than waiting to complete it on his own at home. The relationship between John and his tutor resulted in a student whose grades and behavior improved steadily. His summer school report card revealed the improvement in John’s educational achievement. His grade point average rose to 2.6 and his current teachers report he is a model student.