George B. Thomas, Sr. Learning Academy > Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the George B. Thomas, Sr. Learning Academy?

  • Tutoring and mentoring in reading/language arts, mathematics, and test-taking skills
  • Grades 1-12
  • Saturday mornings / 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. / October through May
  • 12 high school centers serving 3,600 students

What is the mission of the Learning Academy?

To accelerate students’ mastery of academics; specifically reading, language arts, and mathematics, and to close the achievement gap.

What is the goal?

To close the achievement gap by helping students demonstrate grade level proficiency (grade of "C" and above), on MCPS curriculum assignments and standardized tests (MSA 70% and above).

How do students register for the Learning Academy?

  • Students can enroll throughout the school year
  • Come to the GBTLA Center that is closest to your home any Saturday morning that the Learning Academy is in session
  • Parents must bring:
    • Most recent report card
    • Student ID#
    • $20 check made out to GBTLA

How are tutoring sessions organized?

  • 8:30 – 9:00 a.m. Assembly/motivational session
  • 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. Tutoring in reading/language arts
  • 9:45 – 10:30 a.m. Tutoring in mathematics
  • 10:30 – 11:00 a.m. Tutoring in test-taking skills

What are the responsibilities of cluster principals?

  • Support and promote the tutoring program
  • Work with staff and help recruit teachers to serve as paid lead tutors
  • Work with parents and community to help recruit volunteers
  • Work with parents and teachers to encourage student enrollment
  • High school and middle school principals help recruit student volunteer tutors

What are the responsibilities of parents?

  • Register students and transport them to the sessions on time
  • Volunteer and donate time to assist the center director

What are the responsibilities of students?

  • Attend regularly
  • Arrive on time
  • Stay on task
  • Cooperate with tutors, peers, and staff

Who are the tutors?

  • Certified teachers (lead tutors)
  • Parent volunteers
  • Business, medical, and legal professions
  • High school students
  • College/university pre-service students

What support does MCPS provide to the Learning Academy?

  • Use of facilities
  • Tutoring/curriculum materials
  • Tutor and staff training
  • Parent training workshops
  • Student/program assessment

What are the benefits to students?

  • More time to complete tasks
  • More help in small groups and one-on-one tutoring
  • Additional practice
  • Continuous rigor

How is the success of the GBTLA measured?

  • Compare last year's grades and scores with current year
  • Report card grades (grade of "C" and above in reading and math)
  • MSA test scores (70% and above in reading and math)
  • Client Satisfaction Survey (parents and students)

 

Updated August 8, 2007 | Content Manager: Jan Chapman