At the YMCA we believe every child deserves the resources to grow and achieve. That's why we provide academic support programs for hundreds of elementary school age students across the Triangle.
Y Learning provides a structured tutorial program for students who are not meeting school system or grade level benchmarks. The YMCA works with schools, teachers and guidance counselors to identify students who could benefit from this program and who may not have the resources or support to achieve their goals.
Y Learning contributes to the school by serving students who need additional academic support. Often, that is support they may not be able to receive at home. -Takeeta Self, CHCCS Teacher
The YMCA carefully selects counselors and a certified teacher for each Y Learning school site. Students are evaluated periodically to ensure they are making progress.
Y Learning is completely funded through the Y's Annual Campaign.
The Chapel Hill - Carrboro YMCA's Y Learning programs have grown from approximately 16 students served to 116 in just the past four years.
Locally, the Y supports four program sites: Rashkis Elementary, Efland Cheeks Elementary, New Hope Elementary and the CHCYMCA (serving students from Estes Hills Elementary).
The support given to Y Learning participants ultimately has the potential to impact the entire student population by closing the achievement gap and accelerating the pace of classroom learning.
Y Learning makes a difference by giving the kids the opportunity to build confidence and realize their potential. -Heather Woodcock, YMCA Staff
While the reach of Y Learning has grown, the community needs for academic support also persist. The YMCA partnerships with Chapel Hill - Carrboro City Schools and Orange County Schools are critical to meeting that need and are tightly connected to our focus on youth development and social responsibility.
Seeing our community open its arms to students like 10-year-old Paw inspires the continuing efforts of everyone involved with bringing Y Learning to life:
Y Learning helps me finish my homework with support from the teachers. I like being here with my friends when school is done. -Paw, Y Learning Student
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Learn more about the YMCA Annual Campaign and how your support can sustain and grow outreach opportunities like Y Learning in our community.
