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Elementary Mentoring

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Introduction to Elementary Mentoring

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Elementary Mentoring is the cornerstone program of GBCI, now in its 14th year. This after-school program takes place at two Title I elementary schools and connects students with caring older-adult volunteers from Asbury Methodist Village and the Gaithersburg community.

In each session, students work one-on-one or in small groups with mentors, engaging in activities such as reading together, journaling, and creating collaborative projects. These interactions are part of a carefully structured program, facilitated by staff and volunteers, to ensure that every activity supports student growth. The program builds literacy, strengthens social-emotional skills, and fosters resilience and confidence.

Elementary Mentoring includes two tracks to meet the needs of different age groups:

  • 1st–3rd Grade Literacy Mentoring (South Lake

       activities that build vocabulary, comprehension, and ​

confidence.

       Elementary School) Younger students focus on

       foundational literacy skills. Volunteers and staff

       read with them, guide journaling, and encourage 

  • 3rd–5th Grade Mentoring (Gaithersburg Elementary

       School) older students engage in more advanced

       literacy work, journaling, and collaborative

       projects. Mentors support them in developing

       self-awareness, teamwork, and critical thinking

       while strengthening resilience and social-emotional

       growth.

Children & Youth Programs: What We Do

Both programs are staff-facilitated and supported by

dedicated volunteers from Asbury Methodist Village,

creating intergenerational learning environments ​

where students receive consistent encouragement and guidance. 

          When/where

  • Tuesday class: 3:30–5:00 PM at Gaithersburg Elementary School (Grades 3–5)

  • Wednesday class: 3:30–5:00 PM at South Lake Elementary School (Grades 1–3)

Core components

  • Literacy Development: Strengthening reading comprehension, writing, and communication skills.

  • Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Helping students build confidence, self-awareness, and stronger peer relationships.

  • Growth Mindset: Encouraging perseverance and seeing challenges as opportunities.

Outcomes

Students improve reading comprehension and writing skills, develop stronger self-regulation, and form trusted intergenerational relationships that support long-term growth.

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