News
Snapshot of SKILLZ Summer School
The summer is going by way too fast if you ask us. SKILLZ Summer School is already nearly over, and the youths have come such a long way in such a short time.
SKILLZ is a special summer experience for youth facing obstacles to academic success. Monday through Thursday, students arrive at Lake Avenue Church bright and early for life skills with our partners Day One and Lake Avenue Community Foundation. Awesome instructors work with youth in large and small groups to address life’s most important issues. They discuss safe sex, anger management, communication, dating violence, self-esteem, goal setting, and a whole lot more.
What our life skills partners do for the youth is really the foundation of SKILLZ. Many of these students have had extremely difficult experiences that prevent them from focusing on schoolwork during the academic year, and are at risk of falling through the cracks of the school system. By giving each youth the nurturing support they need and addressing the real challenges going on in their lives, the life skills sessions the stage for youth to achieve their full potential.
After lunch, youth work with teachers and tutors from Pasadena Unified School District to strengthen the math skills they need to succeed in the school year. Teachers use their own unique, interactive math curriculum and are able to give extra attention to each student, ensuring that no one gets left behind. Tutors from College Access Plan help youth accomplish their goals and head toward college.
We’re looking forward to celebrating the youths at the final celebration in two weeks. Be sure to stay tuned for updates on the students’ successes!