Partner Agency Story

In the fall of 2013, Flickinger Learning Center had a mother come to the center to get her son enrolled. There was a waiting list at the time. The mother started crying and begging for help. She said that her son was a kindergartener, did not know English and was really behind. They needed help. Fortunately, a few weeks later a spot became available.

When little Samuel first started the afterschool program, he was very shy and serious.  Mrs. Larson, his teacher at the time, was able to connect with the kids and keep things fun while making sure that everyone got their work done. Samuel quickly flourished in this environment. He was incredibly driven to learn how to read all by himself. By the end of the year he had nearly reached his goal of independence, and was able to start having conversations in English.

When Samuel started back with the center in first grade he quickly made it known that he wanted to read and test all by himself. Ms. Bowman, the Site Coordinator, worked with Samuel and set goals. He worked hard and by the end of year he was proficient with small chapter books. In 2015 Samuel is in second grade and is already reading books at a third grade level. His self-confidence has grown and he is now very social and engaged in learning. Samuel’s story could have been very different if it were not for the afterschool program at The Flickinger Learning Center. The staff and all those that made this possible, are all very proud of Samuel.