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The Neighborhood Learning Center (NLC) was established in
December 2000 as a non-profit agency
and provides tutoring by certificated teachers to K-12 students
in Clackamas and Multnomah counties who want more instruction
for their classes. This service is especially relevant at a
time when students are getting less and less attention due to
education budget cuts. Adults and senior citizens can also take
beginning computer and Web design classes in a supportive environment.
Former students have applied the newly acquired skills in the
small businesses they own, or simply to communicate and become
part of the information-driven society.
To date, over 50 students have been tutored at the NLC. Also,
the NLC has improved the quality of life of many senior citizens
through newly acquired computer skills and helped small business
owners become more competitive.
These services are available through the North Clackamas Community
Classes system or by contacting the NLC directly. No one is
denied services because of lack of an ability to pay. However,
the services provided are limited by available resources. Income
from registration fees cover only a small portion of the value
of services delivered. The NLC depends on community support
to fill the balance. The NLC welcomes contributions that will
help the organization fulfill its educational and technology
mission. As a 501 c(3) tax exempt organization,
donations to the NLC are tax deductible.
Education of school age children is the main focus of the
NLC. One on one tutoring in math, reading and writing is
provided. Ideally, coordination with the classroom teacher is
part of the process, but not necessary.
The tutoring consists of learning the basics: in math, the four
operations of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and later,
percents. Support is also given in Algebra, Geometry, and Advanced
Algebra. The calculator is not used.
In reading, phonics and spelling are emphasized in addition to
comprehension. Students are assigned written work to reinforce
comprehension and strengthen writing skills, in the belief that
reading and writing are mutually supportive.
It is generally recommended that tutoring sessions be one hour
in length. There are however, conditions that must be
met.
1) Completing homework. Homework will be assigned and
is due at the beginning of the next tutoring session. The parent
is asked to monitor the homework to ensure that the homework
is, in fact, completed. Failure of the student to complete the
homework could result in termination of services.
2) Keeping appointments. If a tutoring appointment cannot
be met, then please call the NLC (503-742-1986) to cancel. If
appointments are ignored or too many cancellations occur, then
there could be a termination of services. Exceptions are made
for planned vacations arranged in advance.
The center is funded by grants and private donations. No contribution
is too small, and will greatly assist the NLC in its mission.
Contributions by check can be sent to Neighborhood Learning
Center, 15824 S.E. 114th Ave., Clackamas, OR 97015. All contributions
will be acknowledged. |
