Newsletters

This past Fall, Collaboration Education expanded its partnerships to support unhoused mothers and children residing at Bethany House in Baldwin and Roosevelt.

At the same time, we proudly continue our more than two-year partnership with the Edna Moran Residence of the INN, where families find safety and stability during challenging times.

Through these partnerships, we are reaching more children than ever — providing consistent academic support during their periods of uncertainty and transition.

The Impact of Volunteers

We are grateful to our past, continuing and to our new volunteers who have joined our team this past summer and fall.

Each volunteer tutor allows us to directly support one more child — while continuing to walk alongside families even after they transition into permanent housing.

Our volunteers are more than tutors. They are mentors, advocates, and steady sources of encouragement.

Supporting the Whole Child

While academic tutoring remains central to our mission, Collaboration Education has increasingly helped students access broader educational supports that strengthen their overall success in school.

Martin’s Story

(Names have been changed to protect privacy.)

Martin, a high school student, faced ongoing academic and attendance challenges. Despite efforts by his school and more than a year of our tutoring and summer school support, he continued to struggle.  Recognizing the need for additional evaluation, Collaboration Education helped facilitate coordination between his school and family.

This month, at a Committee on Special Education meeting attended by Collaboration Education and parent, Martin’s learning needs were formally identified. A personalized program of special education services will begin next month.

Together — school staff, family, the team where the family is residing and Collaboration Education members,  we are hopeful this new support will help redirect Martin’s path toward graduation.

Staying Connected Through Transitions

Housing changes often mean school changes — and disruption in support systems. Maintaining connection during these transitions has become essential to our mission.

Alisha’s Story

(Names have been changed to protect privacy.)

Alisha was one of the first students we tutored. After moving into permanent housing in a new district, we lost contact. Nearly two years later, her father reached out when she began struggling again.

Today, Alisha meets with her Collaboration Education tutor twice a week at a public library near her home. Her tutor works closely with her teachers to align support with school goals.

Recently, Alisha wrote in her journal that the best part of her week is meeting with her tutor. Her father shares that she is happier — and her confidence is growing.

Partnership Makes the Difference

These stories represent just a small glimpse of the powerful impact that compassionate, coordinated effort can have.

When volunteers, families, schools, and community organizations work together, children facing instability gain not only academic skills — but confidence, consistency, and hope.

A Message from Our Board

As we look ahead to the year before us, we remain committed to walking alongside every child and family we serve — especially during times of transition and uncertainty.

Our progress is the result of the collaboration of families, school, community organizations and our volunteers working together with compassion and dedication.  Together, we create opportunities that have the possibility to truly change a child’s trajectory.

Thank you for being part of this important work. With your continued support, we will keep building relationships, strengthening partnerships, and opening doors for children who need it most.

With gratitude,

The Collaboration Education Inc Board

Dr. Elaine Kanas- Board Chair

Dr, Deirdre Hays - Secretary

Joanne Lufrano – Board Member

Jeannette Baxter – Board Member

Celebrating Our First Year

It is hard to believe that Collaboration Education is now celebrating our first full year of serving students! We are so proud of our students and the great strides they have made in building strong family–school connections.  As we prepare for the 2025–2026 school year, we want to thank our volunteers and share some highlights of our first year together.

Highlights from the Year

Strengthening Family and School Connections

• A high school parent learned how to monitor her child’s attendance through the school’s parent portal.

• With guidance from our liaison, one parent agreed to school testing, allowing her child to receive much-needed services.

• Two students’ educational placements were reviewed and redirected through strong volunteer–school collaboration.
  
  

Student Success Stories

• A student with limited English made remarkable progress. Her teacher noted:
  “She continues to show significant growth in all areas. She is becoming a more confident reader and writer. She should be proud of her progress.”
  
  

Enrichment Beyond the Classroom

• Cooking & Math: Students measured and mixed ingredients for cookies, practicing math while building observation and drama skills. Families joined in the fun—and the treats!

• Museum Day: Thanks to a grant program, families enjoyed a special visit to the Long Island Children’s Museum. Admission, pizza lunch (courtesy of The Inn), and transportation were provided. Volunteers curated exhibits to make the visit both meaningful and fun.

• Summer Kickoff Party: Students launched summer enrichment with gardening and ice cream. Weekly lessons in science, literature, art, and gardening are keeping skills sharp while encouraging outdoor fun.

Looking Ahead

Collaboration Education will soon expand its work to Bethany House, a nonprofit supporting women with children experiencing homelessness. Introductory work begins this summer, with full tutoring services starting in the fall.

Thank You for Your Support

Our heartfelt thanks go to our dedicated volunteers and supporters—without you, none of this would be possible. Every effort makes a lifelong impact on the children we serve.

👉 To volunteer or donate, please visit: collaborationeducation.org