ALBANY, N.Y. May 29, 2007 - New York State United Teachers Vice President Maria Neira recently stopped by for a visit at "Two Together" - an after-school program in Albany that gives students precious one-on-one time with trained tutors. NYSUT is a community partner of the program.
"It is a model of a homework assistance program that can get kids excited about schoolwork with the benefit of uninterrupted time with talented, caring educators," said Neira.
Two Together, now in its 10th year, provides adult tutoring for students in grades 1-5 and trains sixth-graders to be after-school "reading buddies." In addition, the project hosts a three-week summer exploration program, family suppers and book festivals.
Students from Albany's Giffen Elementary School and the Thomas O'Brien Academy of Science and Technology are getting quality help at the "Two Together" program. The homework "clubhouse" is a welcoming environment in the Albany Housing Authority building - one with decorated walls and plenty of help in math, reading, writing and computer time.
Among the Albany Public School Teachers Association members helping out are: Nate Turner, a K-1 teacher at Giffen and a site coordinator for Two Together; Jacqueline Johnson, a first-grade teacher at Giffen; and Karen Gebhardt, a Giffen teacher and Two Together board member. Other volunteers include Martha Fleming, a retired United University Professions member and UUP member Betty Shadrick - both from SUNY Albany.
Two Together is funded through the State Advantage After School Program.
NYSUT represents more than 585,000 teachers, school-related professionals, academic and professional faculty in higher education, professionals in education and health care, and retirees. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.
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