Raider 2 Raider = Students Helping Students Succeed

There is a new afterschool program at Reynolds High School. Every Monday through Thursday students, teachers and tutors meet. Student work groups, based on subject area, are organized to allow students to receive help on assignments, or they are able to use the time to work on their homework.

This program is unique because while there are some adult tutors/teachers, many students tutor other students. Geometry teacher Shannon Mashinchi recruits the student tutors, while Latino Youth and Family Advocate, Celena Ponce helps spread the word to students through her involvement, especially amongst the English Language Learning students, at Reynolds High School.  The program started in October 2014 with a handful of students, representing three languages and quickly grew to more than 150 students. In March, there were over 600 attendees. Counselors also refer students to the program and there are already 40 incoming freshman signed up for 2015-2016.

Students are very excited about Raider 2 Raider and what it offers. Student tutor, Deka Noor went to one of the first meetings and was immediately invested in the program. She likes that students who may have a hard time in school, because English is not their first language, are able to get individual help from people that speak their language. Deka’s favorite subjects to tutor are math and science but she will help with any subject that a fellow student needs. Deka said that one of the best things Raider 2 Raider does is financially support students who want to take a language test to earn credits.  The language test is available to students who are proficient in another language. If passed, the student is demonstrating language proficiency and earns credits towards graduation requirements as a second language. Deka said this gives more opportunities to students that benefit from taking the test but may not be able to afford the test fee.

Twins, Emilia and Francisca Vazquez, both sophomores, attend Raider 2 Raider to receive support for their classes. They both heard about the program from Celena Ponce and started attending frequently. Over the course of a few weeks they saw improvements to their grades and return because the programs works. They both think the program is great for all students and especially for students who may not be able to receive any other help. Both girls plan on attending through their senior year.

Raider 2 Raider will be meeting for the rest of the year and is open to all students of Reynolds High School to receive help in any subject—all they have to do is meet afterschool. Students interested should call or email Mrs. Mashinchi at smashinchi@rsd7.net.