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How Moonshot Academy Helps Students Read
One of the four ways The Learning Alliance helps students read is its afterschool and summer tutoring program, including Moonshot Academy. Thanks to our partnership with SDIRC, we offer Moonshot Academy to students on nine elementary school campuses, making sure 1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-graders are catching up in literacy and staying engaged in school.
Moonshot Academy is also a learning lab for teachers, who can receive professional development, support, and practice new, fun, and engaging teaching strategies (all while making extra money for working after school).
“We’ve seen students grow in confidence, develop a love for reading, and achieve academic success,” said Jeramy Keen, Principal of Treasure Coast Elementary. “The majority of our fourth grade students who participated in the Moonshot Academy last year are thriving today. This program is an invaluable asset to our students, our school, and the entire district.”
By learning before school, after school, and/or during the summer, Moonshot Academy students demonstrate at least 50% more growth in reading compared to their peers. In addition, the skills students learn prepare them for lifelong success, giving them confidence in themselves, problem-solving skills, and a love of learning.
“In kindergarten, Carmen really didn’t know as much as the other kids,” said Antoinette, a Moonshot Academy parent. “She barely knew sounds, letters, counting…So, then when she got in first grade, she started the program Moonshot. Her confidence level is [at an] all-time high. She loves going to school now. She loves being with the kids. It has benefited Carmen because when she gets to higher grades, she’ll feel like ‘Oh, well I was in Moonshot, and this is what I learned here, so I’m going to take what I learned and always keep it with me, always have it with me.”
To see what the students are up to, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and if you’d like to support the Moonshot Academy too, consider donating or volunteering.
Learn more: What is Moonshot Academy?