Can you help me with this?

As Study Hour was about to begin, I got the room settled and welcomed students as they arrived. They eased into their seats with notebooks and laptops, ready to focus. Before I knew it, Wilver opened the door and said, “I need help with my history homework.”

Wilver’s history assignment was one of those moments that reminded me why we added a second Study Hour session this year. Having another day in the week means students can come in, read through assignments out loud, ask questions, and practice the skills that will support them as they prepare for the ELPAC, and it also means they do not have to do it alone.

That Thursday, Rebecca walked in right on time. Even after coaching swimming at St. Margaret’s, she rushes over so she can be there by 5:30 p.m. When she saw Wilver working through his history reading, she pulled up a chair beside him and listened. Together, they went line by line, pausing to define unfamiliar words and talk through what the passage meant, until Wilver felt ready to keep going.

Rebecca has been a tremendous asset to our program, bringing experience, care, and consistency that our students feel immediately. Moments like these are a reminder that Study Hour is not only about finishing assignments. It is about surrounding students with adults who believe in them, and who are willing to sit beside them long enough for learning to take root.

Maritza Rebollar

Youth Director