IMPLEMENTATION EFFORTS OF AN

Academic Coach

GLENDA MCCARTHYMONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY-BOZEMAN

DECEMBER 2013

My position

I work for Indian Education, Billings Public Schools

Academic Coach 9-12 Across 3 AA schools, based mainly at Senior

HighIn my second year with this roleGOAL- to reduce and close the achievement

gap for American Indian students

Academic coaches aim to empower students as they work

towards their learning goals

Why an Academic Coach focusing on AI students?

American Indian students are impacted by historical trauma

Many don’t have college/high school graduates in their families

Well founded mistrust of schools mixed with hope for education and a better future

Culture shock when transferring from reservations

Graduation of AI students 20% lower than non-native students in Montana

Strengths of American Indian Students

Resilience from family, culture, spirituality, humor

Growing “Native Pride” with Indian Education for All

35 Native graduates last year from Senior

Xavier’s winter door decoration for my room

First Native students to dance at pep assembly - 2011

Native students in the “Celebrate Senior” Parade 2012

My Academic Success Classes

2 sections open to all students, but specially meant for struggling AI students

10-15 minute mini lesson to start class Developing positive mindset, resilience, focus Literacy and communication skills, emphasis on

diversity Effective use of online resources: Quizlet, Spark Notes

etc Students monitor their own grades

40 minutes to work on assignments with assistance

My shy students

Tracking and Tutoring Individuals

Compile, update and share grades in spreadsheets

Counsel students and inform families, refer to tutoring and appropriate services

Home visits and parent contactAdvocate for accommodations, learning style

matches

Life Learning

Encourage students to pursue real world learning

Resume writing and job seekingCultural experiencesCommunity activism

My student, Chad Falls Down, acted on his passion for a book under threat of being banned.

Digital Divide

Sought grant money for 6 Chromebooks I can loan to students with no computer or wifi

Addressing an equity and access issueTeaching students responsibility

Homework Help

In my room Mon-ThursSchool and Indian Education pay teacher

tutorsMSU-Billings also provides tutor(s)Health snacks, computer access, tutoring,

friendly atmosphere Some students are homeless or lack a

suitable study environment at home

Homework Help

Mentoring

For at-risk American Indian students (failing 2 + classes)

36 teachers have volunteered in the program

76 mentees have participated

Mutually agreeable match with a current teacher

Mentoring cont.

Mentors build a trusting relationship, help students track their grades, assist with organization and encouragement

We have a shared lunch once a semesterMentors report increased engagement and

academic achievement for mentees who stick with the program

I mentor the mentorsThis year we had an honor ceremony for

Senior’s mentors from the past three years

Celebrate Success

Our own honor posters with graduating students and their legacy quotes

Role models inspire their siblings, cousins and friends

“You can do it too!”

Celebrate SuccessFilm clips of cultural activities, tipi raising, Heritage Week, Indian Education for All, School District powwow to inspire hope and pride

Family Involvement

Developing relationships: phone calls, text messages, emails, home visits

Successful Family Night this year with 100 people thanks to parent support

In Conclusion

Asking students to step up academicallyProviding resources and encouragementAsking teachers and faculty to grow in

cultural proficiencyBuilding trusting relationships with Native

Families

to empower American Indian students