We’re thankful for the support of our members, donors, and community! One program that benefits from this support is our Power Scholars Academy.
The Y, a longtime leader in youth development, is working to improve the educational readiness, engagement and outcomes for the country’s children, in partnership with BellXcel and Syracuse City Parks and Recreation Department. The Power Scholars Academy programs, built on BellXcel's evidence-based model, serve more than 4,600 kids who attend high-poverty schools nationwide.
In 2021, as we worked to rebound from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the YMCA of Central New York served scholars at Kirk and Schiller Parks, as well as virtually. 50 scholars from grades 2-8 attended 25 days of programming during the summer and achieved over 3 months of growth in literacy and math skills. Along with academics, 86% of scholars showed social emotional growth as well, growing more confident in their ability to learn, increasing their trust in others, and showing greater ability to work through challenges.
“I am so proud of the hard work that was put in by the scholars, teachers, volunteers, partners, and interns to make the summer successful,” shares Alicia Roberson, Director of Education and Grant Management for the YMCA of Central New York.
You can learn more about the outcomes of the Power Scholars Academy through the 2021 Impact Report prepared by BellXcel. The quantitative and qualitative data comes from parent surveys, scholar surveys, teacher surveys, and the results from pre and post STAR testing (a computer-adaptive test that measures reading, math, and early literacy skills).
You can ensure more children are able to access programs like Power Scholars and more through your support of the Y. Thank you!