Philadelphia students, parents, educators and community leaders came together at the Black Male Development Symposium on May 15 to discuss issues affecting African-American men and share ideas about local solutions to address those issues.
The symposium was held at Arcadia University in Philadelphia and included a presentation by Ombudsman operations manager Bill Listanski. Bill reported on the successes of African-American male students enrolled in the seven Ombudsman learning centers in the School District of Philadelphia.
Note: This presentation includes program-wide outcome data.
5. Ombudsman In Philadelphia Seven locations Three accelerated centers Four blended model centers Small size and low student-to-staff ratio 60 slots, split between a morning and afternoon session Daily social skills and behavior management
6. Ombudsman In Philadelphia “I like the sequence. The way it’s computerized, you can’t get over it; you have to go through it. It gets tiring, but I think it’s the best way to do it.” Erik Dunhan, Senior, Ombudsman West “I like it. They give you something to study first. As soon as you’re done studying, you practice. So then when you go to your test, you pass.” Chesique Pope, Ombudsman West “Our philosophy is all about choices and a belief that each kid can be a productive member of society. We get to really see the difference that we’re making with this population of kids.” Bill Listanski, operations manager
8. Ombudsman Students 100% of students referred to Ombudsman are at risk of dropping out 89% of students graduated, successfully returned to their district or completed their enrollment period with Ombudsman
School District of Philadelphia, OES will provide:Individualized computer-assisted academic instructionSocial skills developmentTo serve as many as 480 students
EXTRA STATS:16- and 17-years-oldIn ninth or 10th gradeSeventh-grade math, language and reading skills42% referred due to behaviors27% referred due to academics
Experience in building customized programs Proven program modelPerformance/financial benefitsCommunity involvementAbility to meet the dynamic needs of districtsChoiceAccountability & resultsIndividual attentionPost-secondary goals35-year historyCost-effectiveBetter outcomes
African American Males profile begins
Traditional – Middle and High School, Off-SiteMiddle Grades – On-Site OES Plus – Special NeedsRestart – Drop Out RecoveryNight School Summer School