What is VP?
The Village Project is an academic service-learning program embedded into the first year education major experience through courses EDUC 101, EDUC 102, and EDUC 103. Our Education Department recognizes the large community need for support within local afterschool programs.
VP Student Quotes
“I liked being in an elementary school and seeing how kids interact with each other. I think that it was interesting to see how kids handle being in different clubs and how they follow directions.” – 2022-2023 volunteer
“I was able to have my own group of 10-15 students that allowed me to get real teaching experiences and learn lessons that I will be able to use in the future” – 2022-2023 staff
“I am very happy with the VP placement I chose because I was able to grow in valuable teaching skills and feel I was making a real, tangible impact on the life of my tutee” – 2022-2023 tutor
“I have gotten to gain more experience and time with the students, while also getting paid for my time. The hours aren’t too long but the memories and connections that I have made with my students are so impactful. Additionally, the YMCA staff is very flexible and understanding with time commitments.” – 2021-2022 staff
“Before coming to St. Norbert college, I had never heard of the concept of growth mindset… I understand after using it when talking to the student I tutor, that it is so important. I will implement process praise over person praise whenever I can. This also has to do with metacognition and self-regulation which is super important. I want to encourage a classroom full of students who know what self-efficacy is and use art as a creative way to help them find that within themselves.” – 2021-2022 tutor
“I show empathy a lot towards students in the program as a lot of kids get hurt during our YMCA after/before school. an example is that in my before school I have a student who is homeless, this student had a hard time making friends on her first day in the program so I made sure to play games with her and connect with her on a level since I too was in a foster care system and had guardians at one point in my life.” – 2021-2021 volunteer
