Students in Taylor’s Duck University, a 21st CCLC program, are reaping the benefits of an inspiring community collaboration. In this rural and economically challenged town of 15,000, 21st CCLC staff have been working hard to narrow the achievement gap felt by many of its economically disadvantaged and minority students. In an effort to do this, Duck University has become a state role model for community collaboration in Texas. As a result of tapping into local resources, recruiting community volunteers, and ensuring success for all, the quality of education for students, parents, and the community as a whole is on the rise.

Earlier this year Taylor ISD was awarded a grant from the Alcoa Foundation. The Alcoa Foundation is affiliated with Alcoa, also known as the Aluminum Company of America, and strives to make an impact in the area of health and safety of children and their families. The foundation directs its attention toward educating for better health and nutrition, prevention of violence and injuries, and aid to people with disabilities. In addition to funding, the Alcoa Foundation is also sending Alcoa employees from the Rockdale Operations near Taylor.  Volunteers will work with children individually to assist them in improving their academic performance, mentor children and tell them stories about life and work experiences, and work with them on arts, crafts, and environmental projects.

Taylor ISD calls this grant project the Intergenerational Learning Center, which provides opportunities for Taylor’s 21st CCLC Duck University students to improve their skills in reading, math, and science while helping senior citizens learn to use technology.   The Intergenerational Learning Center project kicked off by partnering with Gardens of Taylor, a local elderly and retirement center. Twice a week from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Duck University students and program staff offer  free  computer classes, such as Computer Basics I and II, Internet I and II, E-mail, MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Publisher, and Digital Photography to participating seniors.  Since one third of Taylor’s population is age fifty and older, this partnership enriches learning not only for children, but also for the entire community.

In an atmosphere of such community collaboration, everybody wins! This interaction between children, Alcoa mentors, and senior citizens is providing children with communication and social skills while they develop relationships with role models.  The elderly are learning essential computer skills, and the lively interaction helps create a positive, active, and engaging environment in the retirement home. As the Alcoa Foundation shares its resources, it also fosters a greater awareness of social corporate responsibility, which encourages the Taylor business community to become more involved with after school programs.  As this collaboration grows, it enriches the community as well as the prospects for program sustainability and students’ success in life.