Y Stories
Francisco's Y Story
Francisco feels more safe in his preschool classroom, comes to school with a big smile and says “I’m feeling happy.” But when he first returned to the YMCA Preschool Program this year, Francisco was so scared and was emotional that his family was concerned. Having a new teacher plus learning a new language was daunting for him. His teacher assured his family that consistency was key and it was okay for Francisco to have these emotions. His class talked regularly about self-awareness and our five senses which taught him to understand that feeling sad, happy, angry, shy, and frustrated is normal for everyone and it is okay for him to do so. Working on social and emotional skills helped Francisco identify with his peers, who felt similar feelings, and enabled him to feel more secure which is key for optimal learning and growth.
Gael's Y Story
Gael is much more comfortable these days speaking and understanding English, completing his homework, communicating, and making friends. When he started as a kindergarten student and an English Language Learner, Gael struggled with behavior expectations because he was still learning English. The Y, Gael’s teacher and his parents worked together to create a plan for him to practice English in our program. Our staff interacted with him in English and assigned a 6th grade reading buddy to work with him more one-on-one reading and speaking English which contributed to his success.
Lawrence's Story
Lawrence participates in conversations during meal time with his peers and is actively involved in clubs. The Y has given Lawrence many opportunities to feel supported, accepted, and appreciated for his hard work and dedication. As a first grader at Polk Elementary, Lawrence struggled communicating with his peers and teachers at school. He also had a difficult time with reading and completing his homework. With these challenges in mind, the YMCA Afterschool Program staff provided a positive and supportive atmosphere for Lawrence by reading with him every day and encouraging him to be himself.Not only have his reading skills and school work improved, but Lawrence has had the chance to make many positive interactions with his peers.
Carson's Y Story
Carson came to the Y's Preschool Program from Ogden School District. He had trouble expressing his emotions and maintaining attention in a classroom. The Y helped Carson work on patience and communication skills. Now, he communicates and shares with his classmates.
Julissa's Y Story
Julissa has personal skills and follows a classroom schedule that helps her be better prepared to enter kindergarten. When she first enrolled in the Y's Preschool program, she only knew one word sentences and had few social skills. Along with the Y, Julissa's parents thought she whould be screened prior to starting kindergarten. The Y worked with Julissa to develop the skills that she needed and she is now a happy student who is enjoying school and making friends.
Jason's Y Story
Jason not only participates in and enjoys the routine activities in class, he also has friends, can communicate his needs and is happy! But that wasn’t always the case. A year ago he came to the Y with very basic skills, he hardly spoke, could not focus or cooperatively participate in group activities, was often overstimulated and ran away or used aggression to cope. With the support of his dad, and a team of caring teachers and leaders who wouldn't give up on him, Jason is now a more confident, successful student!
Becca's Y Story
Becca is a staff member at the Y. She came into the organization to find a workplace that would not only value herself but value kids. The Y helped Becca believe in herself by inspiring kids. She is thankful for the Y in giving her confirmation that no matter where a child comes from, they are always worth the effort.
Lisa's Y Story
Lisa is a student at the Y's Afterschool Program. She came into the program having trouble with math. In the Afterschool Program, Lisa received tutoring once a week. The Y helped Lisa gain confidence in her math skills and improve her grades.
Manuel's Y Story
Manuel is a student in the Y's Preschool Program. He started the program knowing little English. The Y helped Manuel learn English, gain confidence, social and emotional skills. Manuel has built a foundation that will support the rest of his school years and beyond.
Olivia's Y Story
Olivia, a staff member at the Y, and her son benefited from the Y. She was a single mom whose son was attending Polk Elementary and was having challenges in school. A site coordinator approached Olivia at a Parent Teacher Conference and told her about the Y's Afterschool Program at his school. The coordinator worked with her son on his disability and help him improve in school.
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