Nature and Purpose: Moving Families Forward
Crittenton Women's Union (CWU) is a Boston-based non-profit that assists individuals and families to attain and sustain economic independence and self-sufficiency. The education program is located in the Brighton neighborhood of Boston. Over two thousand individuals are served each year through CWU's comprehensive continuum of services in the areas of housing, education, employment, early education, nutrition, wellness, and family support. CWU is recognized as a national model in breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty and welfare dependency. In July 2006 Crittenton merged with the Women's Union, another venerable Boston agency with a history of supporting low-income women in their efforts to reach economic self-sufficiency. The Women's Union brought specialized initiatives in the areas of program research and development and advocacy to inform public policy.
Alternative Education Services at Crittenton: A Youth Program
At CWU, we understand that traditional school settings don't work for everyone. This co-ed program is an alternative that provides students with the supportive services they need to succeed. It is geared towards Boston residents 16 to 21 years old, who have dropped out of school but are interested in furthering their education. We serve predominantly youth of color from the inner city neighborhoods of Boston, and approximately 70% of our students are pregnant or parenting. Program hours are Monday through Friday 9am to 2:15pm. We alleviate some of the most common barriers to school success by providing free transportation, breakfast, and lunch for all students. Our holistic approach treats each student as an individual and a whole person, focusing equally on academics and support.
- Focused on Academics: Students spend at least 4 hours per day on Math, Science, Social Studies, Reading, and Writing to help them prepare for the GED tests. They are placed in a learning group appropriate for their academic skill and comfort level . To support different learning styles and needs, the program provides individual attention in small classes and one-on one with experienced teachers. Our facility includes a 13-station computer lab with self-directed GED software available to students. PULSE interns and other volunteers provide small group and one-on-one tutoring.
- Focused on Support: CWU students face challenges such as homelessness, teen pregnancy, and negative school experiences. Case Managers support each student based on their individual strengths and needs. Our Student Leadership Council and a weekly Town Hall Meeting empower students to make decisions and be part of a community. Other support services include mediation and conflict resolution, weekly life skills, workplace skills, and parenting and prenatal classes.
Tasks
PULSE interns provide tutoring in one of the five GED subject areas: Social Studies, Science, Math, Writing and Literature. Students in need of tutoring are identified by education staff. Interns work with students one-on-one or in a small group setting, and are provided with the necessary training and support by CWU staff. Interns work closely with a GED teacher to develop teaching techniques to meet each student's needs. PULSE interns work with students who have experienced little or no school success, and are an integral part of guiding students towards their first positive academic achievements! Based on an intern's schedule, he or she may provide administrative support when students are not in class. Interns also have time during break and Lunch to informally interact with the students.
Time Requirement
PULSE students work two four-hour shifts per week during program hours (Monday through Friday from 9am to 2:30pm).
Supervisor
Martha Hayden
Instructor, GED Program
Address
10 Perthshire Road
Brighton, MA 02135
(617) 782-7600 x2128
Council Member
Laurie Monahan