More support from the local community is coming to the Rock Island Academy (RIA), in the form of a partnership with United Way Quad Cities (UWQC). RIA has been selected as one of five Quad City area schools to be part of UWQC's 'Communities in Schools' initiative.
According to UWQC, 'Communities in Schools' is a proven national model, which has successfully supported over 1.6 million students across 26 states. It's an expansion of the group's 'United for Schools' initiative, which is designed to provide wraparound services to students, addressing both academic and non-academic barriers that impact their ability to succeed in school.
"This is an awesome opportunity to provide support and guidance for improving student growth for our scholars and maximizing a positive experience for them in all areas of their educational career," said Dr. Tom Ryan, Rock Island Academy Principal. "This will have a positive effect on not only our scholars, but also their families and the RIA community as well."
Through the support of full-time site coordinators currently funded by United Way, embedded in schools, the initiative ensures that students facing challenges such as homelessness, trauma, or unmet medical needs have access to the resources they need to stay focused on learning.
"The partnership between United Way Quad Cities and the Communities in Schools initiative will increase the crucial support of the scholars of the Rock Island Academy in many ways including, but not limited to academically, socially, and emotionally," said Scott Vance, RIMSD #41 Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning. "We look forward to working with both groups to the betterment of our community and scholars"
"This initiative will significantly enhance the chances of scholar success both in school and in life—the true goal of education," said Jeff Dase, RIMSD #41 Deputy Superintendent. "It was inspiring to witness our community unite for the benefit of our children. I'm proud to be a part of this Quad City legacy."