CITY OF ARLINGTON | Grants Management Annual Report 2024 17
Dan Serna ’ s Journey with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County
Returning to in-person education post-pandemic revealed significant learning gaps for students who face challenges in reading and writing . In collaboration with school principals and teachers from Rankin , Goodman , Blanton , and Adam Elementary Schools , Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County has been able to support students this school year through the implementation of our Academic Success Initiative curriculum , high-yield learning activities , and exposure to positive learning experiences . Dan Serna Branch Academic Enrichment programs are supported in part through a City of Arlington Community Development Block Grant . In the spring semester of 2023 , Dan Serna branch staff worked with members to achieve academic success in reading and writing by targeting 45 members in need of academic intervention and mentoring . Working together , members posted a sight word wall in Dan Serna ’ s education room and participated in group read-aloud sessions . Additionally , members had the opportunity to explore George W . Hawkes Downtown Library . On this trip , club members had access to the children ’ s section of literature , where they were able to spend time selecting and reading a book of their choice . Staff at the library engaged members in a STEM activity where they were able to create a library bag that they could take with them on their next visit .
When following up with teachers , they have received continuous positive feedback regarding the significant progress they are seeing in students who were once not reading at grade level . Members come to Boys and Girls Clubs eager to share their academic successes with staff who highlight , champion , and recognize their growth .
“ The staff at Dan Serna have helped me learn to read bigger books . I like showing them my report card when my grades go up . They help me set my next goal . I like being challenged .”
Demetrius M ., 11-year-old , BGCGTC Academic Enrichment mentee