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The After School Academy is a well-developed after school program that serves 140 East Palo Alto students every day of the week. Our student population is 60% Hispanic, 30% African-American, and 10% Pacific Islander. We are seeking volunteers who will be paired with a middle school student who needs extra help. The students in question are enrolled in a "Study Skills" program: essentially, it is a study hall for them to work on their homework and school projects.


The times for volunteers to come in are Tuesdays and/or Thursdays from 4-6pm. Ideally we would like people who can come in both days every week, but coming in once a week, or for just a part of the 2-hour block, can still be very helpful. Volunteers will work with the same student every week, and develop a strong relationship over time. Often, these kids need a good older friend and a positive role model just as much as they need academic help, and volunteers can do a great job of filling this role.


A teacher will always be in the room to supervise students and assist the volunteer. I (the assistant director and volunteer coordinator) am also on-site at all times to answer questions, provide resources and support, and check in with volunteers. We work hard to create a positive environment that is supportive for the children and immediately rewarding for volunteers. You will be able to see firsthand how much of a difference you can make. We LOVE our volunteers and are very appreciative of what they do, so please, come join us!


Note that there are a couple expenses associated with volunteering with our program. First, volunteers must be screened for tuberculosis (about $0-40, depending on where you go), if they do not have proof of a negative test within the last four years. Second, volunteers age 18 or older must go through the Livescan fingerprinting process, which usually costs $20-25. However, we are hoping to set up some FREE Livescanning sessions during the year, so volunteers may be able to avoid this expense. Both the TB test and the Livescan are mandated by our district volunteer policy. We will provide guidance on how/where to have these tests done.

If interested, please contact bscoles@ravenswood.k12.ca.us. Please include the days/times you'd like to volunteer for.