An effort to kill the cycle of the "school to prison pipeline" idea but providing tutors and enrichment activities for, in specific, north SLPS students.
The Overground Railroad to Literacy is a student led effort to participate in the local community as partners to enhance academic performance of students who primarily attend St. Louis Public Schools. We work with afterschool programs to provide not only tutorial service but also enrichment opportunities. Our effort emerged out of a desire to assist in closing the school to prison pipeline that re
presents in many respects the foundation for social and economic injustice in our community. We see our work as grounded in the Jesuit mission, not simply of service but as an act of accompaniment that lifts the souls of both the served and the server. We are partners for change. Overground works at the Walbridge Elementary School, the North Campus (Sanctuary), Vashon High School, and Sisters of Charity afterschool programs. Hours of service are from 3 – 6 Monday through Friday. We have volunteer and paid opportunities. The paid experience is through the Federal Work Study program. Previously we used only volunteers but are seeking to expand the pool of students who can afford to do this work. We are looking for individuals who are willing to make a commitment to the students they will work with and whom we can depend on to be there at assigned times every week. The students we work with need that level of commitment. Students are also expected to participate in biweekly reflections with their peers to examine the experiences they are having as a spiritual one. We are about touching souls both in the community and here on campus. If you are interested please contact us at [email protected].
