Academic Instruction Program

YouthBuild PCS’s academic instruction program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to obtain a GED (General Education Development) diploma. Students are instructed in (5) five major content areas: Reading, Writing, Math, Science and Social Studies. All academic classes are taught in both English and Spanish.  Academic assessments are administered at the beginning of the school year to establish baseline grade level, and are subsequently administered throughout the school year to assess academic progress and to evaluate instruction.  Students with special learning needs or who need more academic support receive specialized instruction.

YouthBuild PCS has a teacher/student ratio of 15:1. The ratio for students receiving specialized instruction is approximately 5:1. English Language Learner (ELL) students participate in Spanish GED classes. These students also improve their English skills by participating in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and then by reinforcing these skills on construction sites. This daily combination of ESL classes with English conversation at vocational placements results in dramatic improvements in students’ speaking and listening abilities.

Academics and occupational skills training are integrated at YouthBuild PCS, ensuring that lessons taught on the academic side are reinforced on the construction site. Project-based learning is also an important component at YouthBuild PCS. Students complete three project-based learning assignments during each trimester. These are learning activities that are cross-curricular: involving and utilizing skills from all areas of instruction including construction, life skills, and academics.

Additionally, tutoring takes place after school from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. across a range of subjects. Each staff member tutors one day of the week, working with students in their particular area of expertise. Students are offered the option of individual tutoring or group work sessions. The students have ample opportunity during tutoring sessions to practice new material learned in class, get extra help with homework, and ask questions about assignments.

After School Tutoring

Students who are in need of additional academic support are able to participate in the tutoring program.  Tutoring is offered by staff and volunteers, Monday through Thursday from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Students are provided with the opportunity for small group instruction and, when available, one-on-one tutoring.  Students are provided with ample opportunity during tutoring sessions to practice new material learned in class and to receive additional assistance with homework assignments and school-wide projects.