Afterschool Tutorial Program
Gloria McFarland – Great Grandparent – Oakland, CA
I am the great grandmother of Missy C. Baker and I would like to thank all of the tutors at the A. L. Willis Life Center After School Tutorial Program for giving their time weekly to help our children with their homework, every instructor with the program was very helpful. I am in my 70s and sometimes I am unable to assist Missy with her homework, but through the help she receives from this program she is now doing well in school. This program has been a blessing to both of us. Thanks again for a job well done!
Denese Staples – Parent – Oakland, CA
I, Denese Staples am the proud parent of Jessica Bills and I would like to extend my appreciation for allowing Jessica to attend the A. L. Willis Life Center’s homework and tutoring program held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. This program gives structure and provides a place where the children can concentrate on homework without any household distractions. It has given Jessica much needed structure in completing her homework on time. Before Jessica started the program, she was having a hard time completing her classwork and homework in a timely manner. Even though Jessica completed her classwork it was not in a timely manner and usually she would disturb others. Recently I spoke with her teacher and he stated that Jessica was doing much better with her study skills. As her parent, I have seen tremendous growth in her ability to complete her homework in a timely manner and the ability to read for 30 minutes in a constant manner. Thank you for this structure and for providing a place to allow these children to concentrate on their homework with skilled educators. I truly hope to see this program re-appear next year. Sincerely, Denese Staples
Zinia Gangopadhyay – Teacher – Acorn Woodland Elementary School – Oakland, CA
I teach a kindergarten classroom in East Oakland with many English language learners, first-time students, and special education students. Often, my students do not have the support they need at home because families/parents have multiple jobs and children to care for. One of my students, (Askarai Terrell) began attending the A. L. Willis Life Center’s After School Tutorial Program. Before attending this after school program, this boy was not focused, not able to identify any letters or write any words, he was really struggling academically in class. After receiving support through this program Askarai has grown immensely! He is now able to speak coherently, play with friends in a safe and social manner, and identify all of his letters and letter sounds. He is even able to write and draw! I am so pleased with the growth this boy has made. I would definitely recommend more students to attend such a program! Thank you so much for helping my students. Have a safe, engaging place for students to go to socialize, learn and continue the work happening at school is imperative to their continued growth. Thank you for your support with this! Let me know what I can do to help!