Teen Learning Community (TLC) Empowers Teaneck Middle School Students through Innovative Community Service Program

By: Aminata (Kendra) Gakou and Charlie Koslowe

Teen Learning Community (TLC) is a new community service program in Teaneck. TLC aims to

build bridges within the Teaneck community, offering free, personalized assistance to middle

school students in three critical academic areas: mathematics, language arts, and executive

function skills. The enrolled students benefit from a broad view of the Teaneck community

thanks to more than twenty tutors in public and non-public high schools. The tutors from both

diverse backgrounds and various educational experiences generously volunteer their time for

this community service and embody the spirit of mentorship. TLC strives to create a supportive

network that transcends traditional boundaries. According to Rabbi Daniel Fridman, one of the

originators, “This program is a reflection of the deep ties that exist between diverse elements

within the broader Teaneck community. We all wish to see the success of our children. In

particular, we are deeply appreciative for the early support and shared vision of Councilwoman

Karen Orgen and Deputy Mayor Danielle Gee in helping bring this concept to fruition.”

Led by Teaneck High School math teacher, Mrs. Adina Lefkowitz, Teaneck High School junior

Aminata Gakou, and The Frisch School senior Charlie Koslowe, dozens of volunteer tutors

dedicate their time to this program, not only addressing the academic needs of students but also

fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

The heart of TLC lies in the invaluable contributions of these young adults. It is their leadership,

unwavering dedication, and selfless commitment to lifting up their younger peers that lays the

foundation for the program’s success. Dennis Klein of the Teaneck Board of Education has

encouraged and supported TLC since conception. Klein is passionate about building bridges in

the Teaneck community and notes “The program is a reminder of what younger generations are

capable of.” Equipped with a passion for teaching and a deep understanding of their subjects,

these high school students are poised to make a profound impact on their proteges. By

providing high school students with opportunities to share their knowledge and experiences,

TLC hopes to inspire a new generation of confident, motivated learners.

Teaneck's middle school students gain access to a wealth of knowledge and guidance tailored

to their unique needs. As Ferial Ibrahim, a TLC tutor attending Teaneck High School remarks, ¨It

opens them [middle schoolers] to the idea that they can ask for help.¨ Together, they embark on

a journey of academic growth, personal development, and mutual inspiration. Students benefit

both academically and socially through the building of new habits. “It’s incredible to both have

the opportunity to teach and contribute to their [the middle school students’] growth in addition to

watching them succeed through collaboration,” says Ella Chalamish, a junior at The Frisch

School. This program provides an enduring mark on the educational journey of every student

involved, a learning experience that exists beyond the confines of the classroom.

The TLC program offers a safe space for learning, free from the typical pressures of a classroom setting that may hinder students from asking for assistance. Whether it's incorporating a game or affirming a job well done, students feel supported and comfortable at TLC. During the session, both tutors and middle schoolers can grab a slice of pizza or a cold beverage at their leisure. Ferial Ibrahim also shared her thoughts on the atmosphere noting, ¨Everyone was calm but also cheerful. You felt like you belonged.¨

Parents are an integral part of the TLC community and welcome to attend sessions, contribute to session structure, and provide input on topics beneficial to their child’s needs.

The Teen Learning Community's schedule is included below. All sessions take place at the Rodda Center. Public and non-public Teaneck students in grades five through eight are eligible to partake in this influential and impactful program.

Sign your middle schooler up here: https://form.jotform.com/adinalefkowitz/MSregistration For more information email: tlcteaneck@gmail.com

Program Dates
October 15th - Opening Event Parents, Students, Tutors
	
October 24th
	1st session - Parents join first 15 minutes
	
November 21't
	2nd session
	
November 28th
	3rd session
	
December 5th
	4th session
	
December 19th
	5th session
	
January 9th
	61h session - Parents join first 15 minutes
	
January 30th
	7th session
	
February 6th
	8th session
	
February 25th - Closing event students, tutors, MS & HS parents