One of the mantras of Citizen Schools is that "It takes a village to raise a child."  We offer the unique opportunity for individuals, corporations and organizations to participate in shaping the future of our students by volunteering to lead an apprenticeship at our school site, or host an offsite exploration at their place of business.  By simply teaching what you do or what you love, you can radically impact the life of a child in your community and help shape a future leader.

We are continually looking to expand our growing list of partner organizations.  It is only through these valued partnerships that we can put our students on a successful trajectory in the classroom and in the workforce.  We understand that in order for our program to run successfully, we need help from the community and its leaders.  We volunteer our time as our way of giving to those who provide us with so much.

If you've got something special to share with your community, learn more about volunteering to become a Citizen Teacher and the next steps in getting involved.  Please feel free to contact me at matthewgreene@citizenschools.org.

Apprenticeships
Our student apprentices are learning Oral Communication, Written Communication, Teamwork and Leadership skills under the direction of our talented staff and outstanding volunteer Citizen Teachers.  From Documentary Filmmaking to Yoga, from Personal Finance to Civics and Government our apprentices intend to collectively "WOW!" Newark and show the community what we can do in an afternoon! 

We realize that the key to academic and personal success is preparation, which is why our students participate in "Success Prep."  Success Prep consists of weekly explorations where apprentices work on the skills and behaviors needed to get on a trajectory towards high achievement in and out of school.  Lessons on organization, note-taking, budgeting of time, prioritization, and self-advocacy are staples of Success Prep.

Academic Support (AIM – Aspire, Invest and Make The Grade!)
An after-school program can not excel without forging relevant ties to the traditional school day.  Each and every afternoon, our apprentices spend the first 60 to 90 minutes to complete their homework alongside caring educators, work on new and challenging academic skills (known as Extra Miles) and build a sense of team by helping each other in all academic areas. Working closely with our outstanding Team Leaders, Vailsburg apprentices strive to set the academic standard for their peers. 

Choice Time is a time for our apprentices to take part in a variety of fun activities that develop teamwork and leadership skills. Students are given the choice to participate in things ranging from book clubs to educational games to sporting activities.  In every grade level, it is important to keep your mind and body sharp and focused!