The On Your Mark Academic Support Program, now entering its 25th year offering support, is an after-school and weekend Tutoring and Academic Support program offered to students of Portuguese speaking descent and students of Spanish speaking descent in grades 1 to 12. The program welcomes close to 250 students and over 200 volunteers a year. Eligible students work with a tutor one-on-one or two students to a tutor.
The program aims to provide support to students facing significant academic challenges in their areas of need, such as Language and Mathematics, conducted in English.
The goal of the program is to help students achieve a sense of positivity and academic success. Beyond mastering subjects like Language and Math, the program endeavors to instill a genuine passion for learning and self-improvement. Through personalized tutoring, students not only receive help with their schoolwork but also develop essential learning skills and strategies that equip them for lifelong success.
By fostering a supportive and encouraging environment, the program aims to boost students' self-confidence and self-esteem. Through regular interactions with dedicated tutors and exposure to positive role models, students are empowered to believe in their abilities and potential. This sense of self-assurance forms the foundation upon which academic achievements are built.
Moreover, the program recognizes the importance of nurturing a positive attitude towards education. By celebrating small victories and providing constructive feedback, students are motivated to persevere through challenges and setbacks. Our aim is to enable students to approach learning with enthusiasm and optimism.
Ultimately, the program strives to not only address immediate academic needs but also to foster a lifelong love for learning and a resilient spirit that transcends the classroom. By promoting positivity and academic success, the program aims to empower students to reach their full potential and thrive in all aspects of their lives.
Something to keep in mind, our program operates with volunteer tutors who do not necessarily have specializations in a broad range of special needs teaching. If your child has any special needs due to Autism, ADHD or other needs that constitute behavioural or learning difficulties we may not be able to accommodate them in this program. Our program relies on volunteer tutors, not all of whom may be equipped or experienced in working with students with special needs. However, we make every effort to interview and enroll volunteer tutors who can effectively support students with special needs, with the aim of matching all students appropriately. Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated.