Unveiling Progress: Educators Empowered, Students Supported in Philadelphia's Underserved Regions via Collaborative Initiative
In the heart of Philadelphia, a fresh face has joined the teaching ranks at the James G. Blaine School. Kayla Banks, a recent graduate from Howard University with an education degree, has started her first teaching job at the school.
Banks' journey to the classroom began at Breakthrough Collaborative, a 501(c) nonprofit organization that aims to support students from underrepresented communities. The Philadelphia-based branch of Breakthrough Collaborative, which has been running for 30 years, expanded its college-preparatory program in 2009.
Banks spent three years as a teaching fellow at Breakthrough Collaborative, where she honed her skills in classroom management and innovative teaching methods. One of her electives, "Let's Talk Money", focused on financial literacy, while "Who's Got Talent" aimed to boost student confidence.
The city and state are in dire need of teachers, and Breakthrough Collaborative can serve as another pipeline for new educators. Banks herself is a testament to this, having been hired by the School District of Philadelphia after her training at Breakthrough Collaborative.
Banks received two weeks of intensive training from teachers at Germantown Friends School before she started at the James G. Blaine School. This training equipped her with the necessary skills to design her own electives, such as those she offered at Breakthrough Collaborative.
The summer program at Breakthrough Collaborative includes academics, enrichment in math, science, literature, and writing, and elective courses designed by teaching fellows. It also features field trips on Fridays. During the school year, the programming includes "career conversations" for students.
Breakthrough Collaborative Greater Philadelphia recently added a college preparatory program, reflecting its commitment to supporting students from fifth through 12th grade. Nationally, three out of four teaching fellows stay in the field after completing the program.
The summer program currently serves rising fifth through ninth graders in the Philadelphia area. The organization's mission is to provide opportunities for students in underrepresented communities and give aspiring teachers hands-on experience.
The James G. Blaine School principal, Gianeen Anyika, was impressed by Banks' training and skills, and is excited to have her on board. With her innovative approach to teaching and passion for education, Banks is sure to make a positive impact on the students at the James G. Blaine School.
Breakthrough Collaborative relies on financial support from readers to continue its work. If you'd like to learn more or make a donation, visit their website.
Read also:
- Postpartum Period and Gestational Diabetes: Does it Persist?
- Controlled spree of Legionnaires' disease among Harlem residents ceased, city health authorities confirm; however, locals push for increased openness and information disclosure
- Transform City for the Better
- Prostate Cancer Examination Guidelines, Outcomes, and Financial Aspects
