County creates after-school tutoring program
Growing concern for children in San Mateo County, Calif., has prompted officials to develop new programs and set aside funding to help ensure safer after-school environments. Of the state’s $75 billion budget for 1998-99, $50 million has been allocated for tutorial programs at elementary schools.
To help fill the three to four hours following the regular school day (and before parents typically arrive home from work), the San Mateo County Board of Education has partnered with the County Office of Education and the community to create 17 homework centers. The centers offer children a safe alternative to the streets or empty houses and ensure that they obtain assistance with their homework. Local high school students serve as tutors to the children. Tutoring gives them work experience and the same safe environment, as well as the opportunity to act as role models to younger children.
Approximately 2,000 children attend the centers weekly. Officials are currently reviewing children’s grades and test scores to gauge the success of the centers, but feedback from teachers and parents has been positive thus far.