G.O.A.L (Giving Open Access to Learning) is a New York City based organization whose mission is to provide structured educational and motivational programs to underserved young people exhibiting below average academic performance. GOAL was organized in response to a public school teacher's frustration over her inability to motivate her students.
GOAL is committed to focusing on selection and implementation of instructional interventions that drive substantial improvement in students’ academic performance. Instructional intervention will take into consideration the cost, feasibility, implementation, and discernible impact on student achievement.
Students need to “learn to learn as they learn.” In order to achieve that objective, it is crucial to create a process whereby children become lifelong learners and overcome the cycle created by the “culture of poverty.”
GOAL’s vision is for students to be successful in a changing world by using technology in the form of computers, telecommunication networks, and audio/video equipment to explore, create, and enhance learning activities in the curricular areas. An equipped computer laboratory containing adequate hardware and software, and a high-speed internet connection is an integral part of the program.
We are presently providing services to 55 children in PS 171 Manhattan. We have formed a partnership with the school and the district, and GOAL has a full time presence within the school. Learning activities include a literacy program, READ 180, which provides systematic and differentiated instruction in reading writing and vocabulary. Students use computer software independently to provide intensive skill practice and build reading comprehension skills through the use of paperbacks and audiobooks.
Enriched learning that is project-based, more hands-on, and experiential is an integral part of the program. The curriculum integrates technology, project-based learning, and real-world experiences to expose students to a world of opportunities otherwise not available to them. Currently, students are studying film editing, African percussion, drama, guitar, and cultural connections. All curricula are designed to increase cultural awareness, while integrating webquests and field trips relevant to the country they are studying.
Intentional learning, which includes all activities that foster social and other nonacademic types of skills, is an integral and critical part of the program. Students attend GOAL two days per week for two hours. A Saturday program is provided which offers sports activities, computer skill development, and yoga and dance programs. Career development programs that include visits to corporations and businesses provide motivation and incentive for students to strive to overcome the negative aspects of the culture of poverty.
GOAL’s day-to-day responsibilities are to ensure that students increase their academic achievement, particularly in reading/language arts and mathematics. We are in the process of developing collaborations which will provide social and health services, and other growth-oriented activities.
