SAPHRON INITIATIVE
Programs
At Saphron, we work alongside a variety of stakeholders—from Title I schools to community support organizations—to provide high-quality virtual youth-to-youth educational programming at no cost.
Reach out to see how your school division can become a Saphron Partner.
Past Clients
Why programs led by high school students instead of standard online high-dosage tutoring (HDT) for elementary and middle school students?
The key is in relationships; one-on-one tutoring offers tailored instruction that cannot be paralleled. High schooler tutors can zoom in on areas that students might struggle with and provide the support they need—all while strengthening a passion for learning as elder examples for younger students.
Individualized Programming
Saphron Proficiency & Achievement Program
Saphron Initiative’s flagship Proficiency and Achievement Program is a unique module that individually pairs students struggling with grade-level content with an instructor who can bridge the gaps in their learning. We offer SPAP for both mathematics and reading comprehension. Students will have the opportunity to bring in homework problems, class work, or any other material for instructors to work with them. Instructors will skillfully guide students through the problem, as well as provide meaningful strategies that students can apply on their own.
Saphron Advanced Student Resource Program
Saphron Initiative’s flagship Advanced Student Resource Program provides gifted enrichment to help students succeed in gifted/talented (GT) programs both prior to COGAT testing and during GT enrollment. Students are encouraged to explore advanced topics in mathematics and reading comprehension, receiving individualized support from skilled instructors. Students will learn advanced problem-solving and critical thinking strategies necessary for building a solid foundation in above grade-level content. Our program fosters a passion for continuous learning and intellectual curiosity.
Our 3 “-ations”
Number 1
Gamification
Gamification is the strategic technique of incorporating games or elements of game playing (such as competition, scoring points, and leveling up) into lesson plans. Several researchers cite gamification as an effective strategy to build engagement and enhance understanding.
Number 2
Application
Application helps make abstract concepts concrete. Understanding how these concepts are applied in the world is crucial to remind students of the value of learning. Examples of application include virtual demonstrations, simulations, and real-world problems.
Number 3
Variation
Variation, in terms of how instructors present information to students, is critical to designing an individualized learning platform. Adapting the style and structure of lessons can help a broader audience of students learn more effectively.
More on our Group Programming.
Along with working with Title I schools, Saphron Initiative works with select non-profit organizational partners that provide for youth across various backgrounds. Our high school student-directed group programs, with both schools and organizations, are unique courses designed to pique the interests of youth and inspire a love for learning—strengthening students’ aspirations to achieve in post-secondary pathways.
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Our Introduction to Coding class is offered only in a group format. This introductory coding program is led by a skilled high school student coordinator and offers a full-time, once-a-week after-school program designed to teach a group of students virtually. Using Scratch-based coding and computer science principles, students will learn the basics of coding and develop a strong foundation in computer programming. The program is perfect for introducing students to coding. With engaging and interactive virtual lessons, this program provides a supportive environment for students to learn and grow.
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Our Creative Writing program is offered in only group classes. This creative writing basics program is designed to inspire and develop the writing skills of a group of students virtually, led by a skilled and passionate high school student coordinator. The full-time once-a-week after-school program will provide a supportive and interactive learning environment that encourages students to explore their creativity and hone their writing abilities. Using a variety of writing prompts and exercises, students will learn the fundamentals of creative writing, including character development, plot structure, and descriptive language.
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Our Intro to Physics program is offered only as a group class. This unique physics program led by a qualified high school student coordinator is designed to introduce physics concepts to students at an early age. Students with a passion for sciences who want to expand their knowledge will learn the foundations of modern physics in this full-time once-a-week after-school program. This course covers the quantum mechanical structure of the atom, the four fundamental interactions, as well as a brief introduction to the Standard Model of Elementary Particles. No prerequisites are required, but we recommend this program for older students (upper elementary school).
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The Public Speaking course that Saphron offers is available as a group and individual programs. High school student coordinators in the public speaking program work closely with students to help improve confidence, fluency, and clarity in any form of oral presentation. This full-time once-a-week after-school program helps to improve students’ presentation skills through a variety of activities, including debates, impromptu speaking challenges, and speech-related games. These activities are tailored to each student, providing a safe and inclusive learning environment for all.
Coordinated on an individual basis with Title I school administrations, our team offers a tailored approach to addressing the unique program ideas for each school. We collaborate with a number of stakeholders who help make these programs possible, which include financial literacy and more.
Saphron Initiative's School-specific Programs stand as a testament to the organization's commitment to fostering tailored learning experiences that transcend the boundaries of conventional teaching. Conducted in partnership with Title I school administrations, these collaborations allow for a stronger educational approach.
Customized school-by-school Programs
Our Premier 2024 Programs Partner
Saphron Initiative works with select Title I schools in Howard County, Maryland, alongside Howard County Public Schools’ Central Office and BRIDGES Program under the Department of Education’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers. The free programming coordinated with these schools includes coding, resource support for gifted students, and more.