Thiems Grants and Study Skills

The additional assistance that students receive through the Study Skills Academies makes a difference and can be transformative.

Parents and teachers report increased homework completion, improved grades, better organization, increased confidence and ease with communication from students.

MAP data indicate that participants in the program have better than average academic growth compared to their peers. 

The District 205 Foundation's Study Skills Academy signature project began in the 2007-2008 academic school year with the goal of improving academic achievement by providing a structured environment outside of the classroom for students to get additional help. 

Every K-8 school is provided with funding and guidelines, but may structure the academy to best address the academic needs of their student populations.  Students are given instruction in specific curricular areas, assistance with homework completion and recovery, as well as help in developing effective time management, organizational and test-taking skills.  

Students are recommended for participation by staff, and attendance is governed by the individual schools' requirements.  The program is coordinated by one or more school certified teacher, and often utilizes volunteers from additional staff, the community or high school students from programs such as Invite to Teach or National Honor Society.

This year will mark the eigth year of the Study Skills Academy project, and we are receiving much positive feedback from teachers, principals, students and parents alike. 

Schools are asked to provide data utilizing various assessment tools (ie.MAP  scores) to measure the progress of students in this program. We are pleased to have data that reflects additional growth in participating students beyond the national average as well as the average of their peers in D205. We are also thrilled to witness less tangible achievements that are more difficult to capture on paper, such as an increase in student confidence, motivation and pride.

If you are interested in making a donation for or sponsoring this program call  630-617-2328 for more information. 

"...I really need to tell you what a FANTASTIC-God-Send-Wonderful program this was for my son.  It made all the difference for him and he loved going to it. I think the one-on-one attention was great for him...It even built up his confidence. I am extremely grateful to whomever is responsible for the program and want to say thanks!"
Edison Elementary School Parent 

"The program provides a place for students who want to do well in school but are missing some of the tools to be successful"
Sandburg Middle School Program Coordinator

"Prior to ISAT testing, 4th and 5th graders went through extended response instruction and expository writing instruction. Afterwards, we received two teddy bears in a basket from one student. She stated that her writing had improved and she had done really well on the ISAT test as a result of the program."
Field Elementary Program Coordinator

"The growth and response from the students was amazing!"
Churchville Teacher 

"This program benefits the school community as a whole because those students that might need an additional boost are getting it through the academy."
Hawthorne Elementary School Principal