Tribal youth program is helping students boost grades, self-esteem

Grades have improved and homework assignments are being done, thanks to a tribal youth program aimed at helping Native American children do better in school.

There are 40 children enrolled in the after-school program, held at the colony in a building that once housed the smoke shop. An average of 29 youth daily travel to the center after school.

"We've seen their report cards. The majority of our kids have improved just by getting their homework done," said Yvonne Capucci, tribal youth program coordinator. "We try to build their self-esteem, and just by getting their homework in helps their self-esteem. We make it fun but make it a learning experience."

The program serves youth ages 6-17 and is primarily focused on preventing substance abuse and delinquency among Native American children. It not only helps the student with homework, but also offers educational activities and games that contain lessons about the devastating effects of drugs and alcohol.

"We play a board game called 'Drug Monopoly.' You start in life as a drug user with three kids and aren't married," Capucci said. "The object of the game is to become drug-free, get a college degree, have a job and a house."

Cultural activities on Tuesdays celebrate the children's native heritage. The youngsters are learning words in Paiute and Shoshone.

Studies have shown that young people get into the most trouble between the time that school gets out until about 6 p.m., said Capucci.

Tribal students are picked up in vans at school and exposed to a full slate of activities until 5:30 p.m. when they are driven home.

One first grade pupil had fallen behind in his studies. He was able to get on track through the after-school program.

"He started turning in homework, got caught up and he just glowed," Capucci said.

A Plato computer program has been set up at the center where students can work to retrieve credits if they have fallen behind. Capucci and aides are also in frequent contact with teachers in the school district to keep abreast of what assignments the children should be completing.

Gary Hall, coordinator for the child abuse and justice center, said the Plato program was also used during the summer. Four eighth grade students were able to make up enough credits to advance to high school instead of being held back, he said.

"Every kid has come up in academics and behavior," Hall said about the youth program and its results.

The program is funded through grants.

Marlene Garcia can be contacted at mgarcia@lahontanvalleynews.com