YMCA - Raising the Bar
Highland Springs was the only unaccredited elementary school in Henrico County in 2010, but the outlook is improving for students. Their principal approached the Chickahominy Family YMCA asking for help raising his students’ achievement level and in January 2011, the Y started an on-site after-school care program for students. Approximately a dozen students from Highland Springs Elementary participated in the program, many of whom received financial assistance from the Y.
“Many teachers have stated the students are getting better grades because of the work that we are doing,” says YMCA Site Supervisor, Ashley Spiller. Each afternoon during the program, there is dedicated time for homework and tutoring if needed. “I think the improved grades have a lot to do with being positive and giving positive reinforcement. They can get discouraged with schoolwork very quickly. If they don’t understand, they put their head down,” she says. “Finally when it clicks it’s amazing! They come give us hugs.”
SOL scores are rising at Highland Spring Elementary and the school regained accreditation for the 2011-2012 school year. “Together we have shown these children how to excel,” says Chickahominy Y Executive Director, Jaime Gambaccini.
To help the Y in your area, please designate your gift to the CVC code listed for your town.
| Location |
CVC# |
City |
| YMCA - Armed Forces/USA |
6964 |
Alexandria |
| YMCA - Camp Silver Beach |
7077 |
Jamesville |
| YMCA - Central Virginia |
6633 |
Lynchburg |
| YMCA - Greater Richmond |
3264 |
Richmond |
| YMCA - Portsmouth |
5056 |
Portsmouth |
| YMCA - South Hampton Roads |
5057 |
Norfolk |
| YMCA - Staunton-Augusta |
5880 |
Staunton |
| YMCA - Virginia |
3723 |
Lynchburg |
| YMCA - Virginia Tech |
3628 |
Blacksburg |
| YMCA - Waynesboro Family |
5806 |
Waynesboro |
| YMCA - William A. Hunton (Norfolk) |
5067 |
Norfolk |
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