In this time of uncertainty, City Year is working to provide consistent support to our BPS students and staff. We are working side by side, with and for the community to help lead through this time of change. In virtual classrooms, over the phone with students, via appreciation videos and emails, we are working to provide the same top tier service to the people who need it most, our young people. 

I have been fortunate enought to work with, on and for City Year for 6 years. I served, I served again, I managed, I left and then I returned. Even when I wasn't in my red jacket, it is the resiliency of these idealists and the mission that drives our work that brings me back and gives me motivation. I am always fired up by the tireless drive to do good and to spread love and joy where ever we serve. I am so thankful to be back with this organization in this time, where I know my work is valued and impactful.

Please, if you can, take a minute to donate to our organization as we try to adapt to this new normal and continue to provide support to our BPS Community. 

With Gratitude,

Erin 

In March, Boston Public Schools (BPS) announced the closure of all 125 schools citywide. These school closures left 50,000 Boston students without access to in-person schooling.  City Year Boston is working closely with BPS to provide innovative distance learning opportunities to students, adapting our Whole School Whole Child program model to suit virtual spaces.

While teachers continue to provide whole-class instruction using platforms like Google Classroom or Zoom, City Year’s AmeriCorps members are providing academic supports in English language arts/literacy and math by facilitating breakout groups, answering questions, and leading enrichment activities.  Our corps members are assisting teachers in planning lessons and reviewing students’ assignments and holding office hours to provide one-on-one and small-group tutoring.  Importantly, our AmeriCorps members are also supporting students’ social-emotional health and placing phone calls home to students and their families as a way to build connectedness, troubleshoot, and communicate updates. 

City Year’s support of virtual classrooms is a pivotal step in preventing learning loss and generating opportunities for new learning, as well as ensuring greater equity of experience among families who may not otherwise have the ability to facilitate in-home instruction.  Beyond this school year, City Year will continue to engage in the virtual space to support BPS students and will be in schools next year to support students when they will need more than ever.