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Support TFO's Mission
Middle School Level 1 Program
Rashedah, mother of TFO students
What parents say
I have two eighth graders in the program. Both love coming here. I've never seen them more engaged in school and with friends. Of course they like to hang around their friends, but I've never seen them more excited about science and math. TFO gets the kids not just involved, but excited about learning. I love being involved with them, so to chaperone and be involved with their education and their extracurricular activities means a lot to me. Seeing them excited about learning, going on these field trips, and seeing things they've never seen before (and I've never seen before) is great. I hope to continue that even when they're done.
Program Overview
In our TFO Level 1 program, we equip each member with the foundational skills needed to achieve long-term success.
The program is designed around five key components: school day linkage learning, self-discovery activities, career research, guest speakers, field trips, and the Together Friends Career Connection Bowls. These components aim to foster the four C’s of 21st Century Learning: Critical Thinking, Creativity, Communication, and Collaboration. Throughout the year, students not only build their STEAM/e knowledge but also develop strong relationships with TFO coaching staff and create a portfolio of projects and experiences that directly link to their school day learning.
(Left to right) Principal Sims, Leslie Brook with Afterschool Alliance, and Timothy Buchanan, Director of TFO. Site visit with Leslie, from Afterschool Aliance from Washington D.C. to McGarrah Elementary School in Georgia.
School Day Linkage and Coordination
Our Program Site Coordinator works closely with partner school academic coaches or department leaders to ensure alignment between our program and the school district pacing guide. TFO staff creates a supportive environment where learning from the school day is reinforced, encouraged, and expanded upon, ensuring students have the tools they need to succeed both inside and outside of the classroom.
Summer STEAM/e Program
Our summer program introduces members to STEAM concepts through real-world projects. We provide an overview of how STEM topics apply to the world around them, encouraging students to make predictions and draw conclusions based on their previous knowledge. This hands-on approach deepens their understanding of scientific concepts while transferring learned skills to directly impact their math and science courses.
Team-Based Collaboration
Our team-based activities are designed to promote collaboration and teamwork. These exercises foster happier, better-connected team members, as demonstrated by the improved verbal and listening communication skills showcased in weekly group presentations. Additionally, our activities enhance members' mindfulness, patience, and respect for one another.
Enrichment Activities and Curiosity Building
Our enrichment activities are designed to spark curiosity in math, science, and reading. Through team-based STEM projects, members become accountable for their learning, with a focus on how STEM concepts can be applied across other subjects like ELA and Social Studies. These activities challenge students to think creatively and approach various challenges with new perspectives.
Middle School Engagement and Career Inspiration
TFO works to inspire middle school students by facilitating engaging, relevant, and tangible exposure to technical career possibilities. We aim to attract BIPOC students to STEAM fields, recognizing the gap in exposure to STEM professionals in their communities. Our programs address this disparity by introducing students to technical careers and providing personal development support, including peer relations, conflict resolution, positive social-emotional health, confidence-building, and academic success.
Soft Skills Development and Academic Support
Our classroom activities equip students with essential soft skills and self-esteem. TFO coaching staff lead sessions on stress management, classroom behavior strategies, self-inventories, and the importance of a positive self-concept. In addition to these activities, coaches provide daily homework assistance, with a particular focus on math, science, and ELA, ensuring that members are fully supported in their academic journey.
Support Our Mission
Your contribution can make a profound difference. By donating to TFO, you help us continue to provide essential resources and opportunities to students who need them most. Join us in our mission to transform lives and build a brighter future for all. Donate today and be a part of our impactful work.
Our Mission
Together Friends Organization is dedicated to closing proficiency gaps and empowering underserved youth through STEAM education, preparing them for tomorrow’s exciting career opportunities.
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