Shaina's Story

Shaina is thriving in first grade. But when she started kindergarten, things were much different. In fact, Shaina’s first months of school were marked by homelessness and parental substance abuse.

Shaina’s teacher knew the child was moving from shelter to shelter, knew that emotionally she was suffering and that academically she didn’t stand a chance. The day Shaina’s mother was sent to jail, the teacher feared she would lose this student she had come to care for so dearly. At the last minute, Shaina’s great grandmother stepped in as her caregiver.

Luckily for Shaina, she had a great ally in Shaina’s Treehouse tutor. Working closely with Shaina’s teacher, the tutor developed plans to teach Shaina basic kindergarten skills. Their relationship blossomed and so did Shaina’s academic development. She started reading and lit up when she talked about books. She began winning math games with her tutor, fair and square.

Her tutor also helped behind the scenes, helping Shaina’s great grandmother shop at the Wearhouse for clothes and a bike for Shaina. The tutor facilitated communication between Shaina’s great grandmother, social worker, school, and after-school day care program. With educational support on all sides, Shaina developed the confidence and positive feedback she needed to thrive.

At an award assembly at the end of the year, Shaina’s teacher presented her with a very special award: Most Improved Student. By the time she began first grade, Shaina was on target academically and socially.

 

Read more about Treehouse's Tutoring program.