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Multiple Schools and SCANA Corporation
(Columbia, South Carolina)
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| Goal: |
Improve academic performance in all subject areas by developing
proper study habits and positively impacting self-esteem. Understanding
the direct correlation between quality education and a quality workforce,
SCANA Corporation, an energy-based holding company, providing electric,
natural gas and telecommunications services, wanted to influence the development
of successful students and future employees. |
| Strategy: |
Initiate Homework Center programs that reinforce classroom
principles, meet the need for quality after-school programs and enhance
state and local governments' efforts to improve public education. |
| Tactics: |
SCANA established a budget and hired a full-time Homework
Center coordinator to oversee the program. Each center has two certified
teachers, snacks, supplies and student incentives. A Homework Center open
house is held at each school to promote awareness and foster community support.
Each Homework Center is provided with operational guidelines, a 30-week
budget, and assistance with budget planning and materials. By working
with classroom teachers and identifying areas of weakness, the Homework
Center staff focuses on classroom curriculum and helps prepare students
for standardized tests.
Initially, the program started with 13 Homework Centers and has expanded
to include 32 centers that cover regional needs in Georgia, North Carolina
and South Carolina.
SCANA volunteers do not solely focus on the academic side of education,
but also read to students, serve as lunch buddies, teach Junior Achievement
classes and invite students to participate in job shadow experiences.
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| Results: |
Reading test results improved by 31 percent and 62 percent
maintained current level.
Math testing results improved by 22 percent and 70 percent maintained
current level.
Teachers and parents are consistent in comments regarding the Homework
Center's positive impact on class participation, attitude towards school,
grades and test scores, self-esteem and social skills.
An educational Web site was inspired by this partnership, www.Energeticminds.com
to provide students, parents and teachers educational content necessary
to learn about energy.
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