- Guiding Principles
1. Immersive Education – “I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I
understand.” This Chinese proverb captures our belief that learning should be interactive and
tied to memorable experiences. We strive to provide activities that are fun, holistic, and
engage multiple intelligences.
2. Purposeful Target Age – Students in the upper-elementary years are the focus of this
program based on educational research that these years are crucial to forming identity. We
have the opportunity to help shape young minds prior to their middle school years.
3. School Collaboration – We partner with our local Title One schools who select students
to represent their schools. They nominate 3rd grade students with potential who are least
likely to have access to enrichment opportunities due to socioeconomic factors.
4. Long-term Commitments – Once a 3rd grader is enrolled in our program, Weekend
Academy commits to that student and family for the next 3 years. Ongoing relationships allow
for a “layering” of knowledge and memories on impressionable young people.
5. A Context of Caring – We work to develop a sense of belonging so that students feel
part of something special. When students’ natural curiosity is encouraged and they feel valued
by staff and volunteers, both self esteem and participation increase.
6. Parent Participation – Family involvement is encouraged because their commitment
impacts more than just attendance. WA parents tend to develop higher expectations for their
children and become empowered to help them pursue additional opportunities.
7. The Saturday Strategy – We meet on Saturdays so that existing corporate and
classroom space that would otherwise sit unused can become a welcoming place of learning.
These corporate partnerships help students feel connected to their community and helps
Weekend Academy operate with low overhead.
8. Multi-generational Model – Each Weekend Academy site includes role models for
students from all ages. Middle-school Academy graduates can volunteer, teenaged tutor
leaders work as paid staff, and adult teachers and volunteers lead learning sessions.
9. Feeding Minds and Bodies – The majority of Weekend Academy students qualify for
Free or Reduced Lunch at school, indicating their risk of being hungry on the weekends. We
provide 2 healthy meals at each session to help young learners focus.
10. Passionate Leadership – Each Academy is led by a local Coordinator who not only plans
the calendar, but serves as a bridge linking all partners. Coordinators are charged with
implementing the curriculum, relating to parents, caring for students, and inviting various
members of the community to get involved.
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