The SEA (Successful Educational Achievement) Program: Empowering Youth Educational Success

K-12 STEAM education

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

Our foundation's SEA Program addresses educational equity in middle school, a critical phase for setting the stage for future academic success. In the 2021-22 school year, 82% of LAUSD middle school students did not meet CAASPP Math standards; 66% fell short in ELA. Over 81% of these students were eligible for free or reduced-price meals, highlighting the economic barriers that limit their access to private tutoring. Mainstream classrooms, often stretched for resources, lack individualized attention. Many of these students contend with significant home-life and social difficulties that impact their academic performance. This combined lack of support not only exacerbates educational disparities but also leaves many unprepared for high school and beyond, perpetuating a cycle of academic and socio-economic challenges. The absence of tailored educational support during these formative years can have long-lasting effects on their opportunities and overall success.

The SEA Program addresses educational inequities by providing intensive, personalized tutoring and mentorship to at-risk middle school students. Our approach is uniquely tailored to each student’s learning style and personal situation, ensuring they receive specific support to excel academically. We emphasize core subjects like math, science, and English, which are crucial for STEAM education, preparing students with foundational skills necessary for future academic and career success.
By integrating mentoring with academic tutoring, our program offers a comprehensive support system that addresses both academic and emotional needs. Our mentors act as role models and guides and help students navigate both their studies and personal challenges, enhancing their ability to learn and grow. This holistic strategy significantly improves grades, boosts self-confidence, and fosters a positive attitude towards learning, effectively altering the students' academic trajectories and life paths.

LA County will merit a transformative impact due to our SEA Program. More students from underserved communities will graduate from middle and high school, contributing positively to their neighborhoods and society. This will reduce crime, drug use, and vagrancy, as these students pursue paths, such as vocational training, apprenticeships, trades, or higher education at community colleges and universities.
SEA Program students will carry this mindset, fostering a cycle of positivity and achievement. Middle school is a pivotal time that can set the course for a child's future. Research underscores the importance of early warning indicators in middle school, such as chronic absenteeism, behavioral issues, and course failures; crucial for identifying students at risk of dropping out. Interventions during this time can significantly alter a student’s academic trajectory. Our SEA Program will make a profound difference in students' lives, and by extension, the future of LA County. ​

The SEA Program, launched in 2012, evaluates its effectiveness through biannual assessments focused on academic performance and behavioral changes. We track key metrics such as grade improvements, school attendance, class participation, homework completion, organization, and test preparation. Success is quantified by measurable advancements; for instance, a student elevating a math grade from an F to a C demonstrates significant progress. We also gather qualitative feedback from mentor-tutors and parents. These insights help us refine our approach and validate the profound effect our mentorship has on students. Attitudinal shifts are assessed via questionnaires, providing a holistic view of each student’s development. The positive feedback inspires us to pursue our mission! The testimonials underscore the vital role that a dedicated mentor/tutor plays in turning challenges into achievements.