Since its founding, Say Yes to Education has continually developed, tested, adapted, and then refined strategies to increase its efficacy. Say Yes knows it is on the right track because each successive model has done better than the one before. Based on research and feedback from parents, administrators, teachers, and students, Say Yes has identified the following interventions that are critical for economically disadvantaged children and youth:
Start Young
Say Yes’ first students in Philadelphia were 7th graders, but as research showed that intervention and support were more effective when begun at earlier ages, Say Yes began targeting younger students. Say Yes’ program now begins in kindergarten.
Stress Reading
Early literacy development is the core of all learning. For this reason, Say Yes has focused on providing intensive reading support (both directly through the use of a reading specialist and indirectly through partnerships with organizations such as the KIPP Academy) at each partner school site. Hands-on support is provided both in the classroom and in regularly scheduled “pull-outs” during the day.
Strengthen Community
Recognizing the importance of a supportive context in which to grow and learn, Say Yes seeks to develop an enriching school and community environment for all Say Yes students. Creating such an environment involves many elements, ranging from offering legal services to the student’s family, to mentoring and even professional development services for teachers.
Extend Learning
Extended learning opportunities are key to success. To help students develop critical academic skills, Say Yes offers summer programming, after-school work and additional supports to close the learning gap.
Engage Family
Children don’t grow up in a vacuum – they are affected by their home environment, the attitudes of the adults around them, and the financial stresses that may be occurring in the home. Say Yes believes in the power of taking a holistic approach to child development, which includes support and motivation for the entire family. For this reason, Say Yes offers parent and sibling financial assistance at two-year, four-year, and vocational institutes.
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