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Middle School offers after-school study hall

Feb 28, 2007 10:32 AM
Tannika King - Faculty profile photo

By Tannika King - Faculty

In an effort to provide one-on-one educational support that is not always available in the classroom, Learning Specialist Lisa Goldin is offering an after-school study hall for Middle School students.

“Students who are struggling in a particular subject are encouraged to participate,” said Goldin. “For example, if a student is having difficulty with note taking, I will sit and work with him or her on how to take appropriate notes from the text or in the classroom. We regularly discuss study skills and organization.”

Goldin prints out all homework assignments for the week in order to help her students get focused on priorities. She also follows up with them throughout the day, making sure they turn in homework, checking on test scores, and reminding them of any upcoming assignments.

“Students often come to me after we have studied together and show me their test grades with pride,” said Goldin. “Many parents even require their children to check in with me daily before attending athletic practice or another after-school activity. I review their assignments and make sure they have been completed in a satisfactory manner before they are allowed to leave.”

Goldin said her goals for the study hall program are two-fold – to teach study skills through modeling and to provide academic support students may not ask for elsewhere.

“With the Middle School schedule as hectic as it is, some students need more one-on-one time with a teacher,” she said. “Also, there are so many students who do not leave school until 6:30 p.m. because their parents work late. Study hall provides a structured place for these kids to get their homework done.”

On Mondays and Tuesdays, Upper School students are available for tutoring in various subjects. “I have already seen many of the Middle School students become more confident in their work and abilities,” said senior Lauren Wood, who volunteers regularly. “They look up to us, and we encourage them. I believe this interaction helps reinforce unity and communication between the Middle and Upper Schools.”

Goldin said an average of 8-10 students show up daily for study hall, with attendance fluctuating depending on other after-school conflicts. She hopes to expand the program by getting more Upper School students involved.

“These students are providing a glimpse into the future for Middle Schoolers to see the results of studying and determination,” said Goldin. “They are building relationships and providing support that will be important as our students grow.”

After-school study hall is offered Monday through Thursday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Middle School. The program is open to anyone. For more information, please contact Lisa Goldin, Middle School learning specialist, at LGoldin@darlingtonschool.org.