SSAS Welcomes New Class and Provides them with the Tools (including Pizza!) to Succeed
SARATOGA SPRINGS – With the beginning of the 2017-18 school year, those students who would excel are those who adopt a routine that facilitates learning. For the 32 kids in Saratoga Sponsor A Scholar Program at Saratoga Springs High School (SSHS), that entails a commitment to attend homework sessions every Monday after classes. Not only does this provide the structure to organize their upcoming week, they have the opportunity to meet with tutors, receive announcements of upcoming college trips and other special events.
The results of this program are self-evident. Now in its tenth year, ALL 64 graduates of the Saratoga Sponsor A Scholar program have been accepted into college. This is a program that depends entirely on donations from the community. 100 percent of donations spent on students, while the Saratoga Sponsor A Scholar Board covers all overhead costs.
Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar’s Executive Director Jim LaVigne noted, “The kids look forward to the guidance these sessions give them, the access to tutors and the pizza dinner SSAS provides.”
“Our weekly mandatory homework sessions are integral to the success of the SSAS program. During this time, we touch base with the students as to how they are doing in their classes, keep them informed of upcoming events such as college tours, community service activities, etc. and offer them free tutoring in the four core subjects. This is a time when students may also approach us if they have any issues or need assistance with school supplies, college applications, etc. Having this weekly contact with our students ensures that we know what is going on in their lives inside and outside of school and keeps them accountable.”
– School Counselor Brandy Crary, Saratoga Springs High School
Saratoga Sponsor A Scholar provides the tools to level the playing field so students, regardless of their economic background, can achieve to their full potential and broaden their horizons. For more Scholarly information, visit SaratogaSponsorAScholar.org
