The Challenges We Face

INCREASING READING PROFICIENCY

Students who read at grade level are more likely to experience academic success and graduate from high school. At United Way, we are working to increase opportunities to communicate with families on their child’s academic progress and create a college-going culture in addition to providing an evidence-based curriculum that addresses reading-related challenges.

INCREASING MATH PROFICIENCY

Mastery of foundational math skills learned in elementary and middle school leads to increased student success in algebra. At United Way, we are increasing the number of engaging, innovative and evidence-based math and STEAM activities.

SUPPORTING OPPORTUNITY YOUTH

Thousands of Bexar County youth ages 16-24 are not actively engaged in school or the workplace to help them realize their academic or life potential. At United Way, we are working to connect vulnerable youth (including economically disadvantaged youth, those with disabilities and/or are homeless) with creative, high-quality re-engagement programs and services such as out-of-school time programs, learning alternatives, workforce training and mental health supports to guide the futures of these young people on a more positive and rewarding path.

IMPROVING SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

Chronic absenteeism occurs when a student misses 10% or more of school due to excused, unexcused or suspension. This could result in students falling behind in comprehension or not graduating on time from high school.  At United Way, we are providing support to caregivers and educators on the signs and symptoms of mental and behavioral health, coping strategies and resources to prevent chronic absences. Support is provided to students at-risk of or identified as missing 10% or more of instructional time within an academic year.

REDUCING DISCIPLINARY AND BEHAVIORAL REFERRALS

Many types of behavior detract from learning and keep our students from doing well in school. At United Way, we’re working to identify and address root causes of disciplinary and behavioral issues with students in targeted schools throughout Bexar County. Developing out-of-school programs, family advocacy and mental health support are examples of how students can find a more positive path.

TOMORROW’S PROMISE

Tomorrow’s Promise is an initiative under the Successful Students Impact Council that helps youth ages 12-24 re-engage with school or workforce training. Tomorrow’s Promise connects young people and their families to community resources, programs and services to help them get back on track with education and/or employment goals. A care navigator meets with young people and their families to offer personalized resources, support and follow up on progress.

TSIA READINESS SUPPORT

The Texas Success Initiative-Assessment (TSIA) is a key benchmark designed to assess students and determine if students are ready for college-level coursework in math, reading and writing. Without readiness support, students may face delays in their educational journey, lose access to accelerated pathways, require costly remedial courses or struggle to persist through college. United Way’s TSIA Readiness Support provides services to improve passing outcomes for students beginning in middle school through high school through expanded academic support services, innovative interventions, mentorship and college advising and technology integration.