The beginning of the school year is here and while there are still many challenges, The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) is ready to support students, teachers and parents as they head back to class. We caught up with two Community Impact Council (CIC) members, Ready to Learn Team Chair Hilleary Boyer and Heart Math Tutoring Chair Jessica Schloemp, who share their plans for the 2020-21 school year and offer back to school advice.
What are the priorities for the CIC Ready to Learn team this year?
HB: One of the top priorities for the CIC Ready to Learn team this year is reestablishing in-person activities with our community partners after a challenging year of remote volunteering. A few of our committees partner with Charlotte-Mecklenberg Schools and the committee leaders had to get creative with how to support students last year, as volunteers were not allowed in the schools due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately, all of our leaders are rockstars and they did a great job assisting their respective community partners in other ways while keeping their committees engaged.
How can all JLC members support the JLC school readiness focus?
HB: The CIC Ready to Learn committees (Classroom Central, Digi-Bridge, Heart Math Tutoring and Sugar Creek Charter School) usually open volunteer opportunities to other League members to join, so keep an eye out on the calendar or for announcements regarding availability! Classroom Central will be running a service project at the September General Membership Meeting and inviting League members to write notes of encouragement for teachers.
How does Heart Math Tutoring serve local schools and students?
JS: Heart Math Tutoring mitigates the effects of increased class sizes, reduced staff support and shrinking budgets that can negatively impact learning by bringing caring, dedicated tutors to students who otherwise would not have access to one-on-one tutoring. JLC volunteers provide children one-on-one tutorial sessions using an easy to follow curriculum to facilitate hands-on activities and games that target the conceptual gaps of their assigned students.
What are the priorities for the committee this year?
JS: We want to ensure that all elementary students develop a strong foundation in math and enthusiasm for academics needed for long-term success. Student and volunteer safety is also a priority. There are virtual volunteer options available and many schools also offer in-person opportunities.
What is your message to students and parents as the new school year begins?
HB: Patience goes hand in hand with kindness. Be understanding and flexible as we work towards our “new normal.”
