Celebrate Birthday School
We couldn’t do this without you and need your help more than ever.
Every week, it costs just $167 per student.
From tutors, reading specialists, schools supplies, PPE, food, and learning materials, we need your support.
the need
Richmond Public Schools has made the decision to transition to a fully virtual learning model until at least February 8, 2021. Many students and families will begin to experience profound difficulties. Finding accessible solutions to the lack of child care, quality instruction, and a healthy and joyful environment outside of the home is a major issue for families.
Many tenants are being faced with the decision to stay home to educate and supervise their children or go to work to continue providing financially.
our response
The Celebrate Community Center is located in The Oliver, an income-restricted building complex located in the East End of Richmond on Oliver Hill Way.
We believe that our program is uniquely positioned to provide not only quality tutoring, mentoring, and other speciality support services as it relates to each individual child, but also the chance to grow and learn in a joyful environment.
our program
We will play an active role in student’s schedule management, providing resources to aid in learning comprehension, and speciality support as it relates to each individual student.
The Celebrate Virtual Learning School is open from 8:30-3:00 every day, providing structured time for students to participate in live teaching, free play, and outdoor activities that allow them to learn and socialize with those around them.
how you can help
Thanks so much for asking! We couldn’t do this without you and need your help more than ever. Every week, it costs just $167 per student. From tutors, reading specialists, schools supplies, PPE, food, and learning materials, we need your support. You can make a donation here.
If you’re interested in sending supplies, please consider checking out our Amazon Wishlist here.
FAQ
Who can attend?
Children who are residents of The Oliver, an income-restricted building complex located in the East End of Richmond on Oliver Hill Way. Children must be enrolled as students in Richmond Public Schools.
How much does it cost?
There is no cost for our students or their families. However, we need your help making this program possible. Please consider donating here. Every week, it costs $167 to provide all the resources, support, and activities that make Birthday School the special space that kids need to succeed.
How will Celebrate clean and disinfect to protect students from COVID-19?
We are following CDC Guidelines to make sure that the disinfectants and practices we use every day are up to standard and will protect our students. We have hourly cleanings to ensure that high-touch surfaces are routinely sanitized and that contact is limited. Additionally, we’ve contracted with a local cleaning company for weekly, deep cleanings.
What happens if a student or teacher begins experiencing symptoms?
If an individual experiences symptoms, they will be immediately separated from all other students and staff and sent home. They will be asked to quarantine until they receive test results. All parents will be notified and asked to be aware of any changes in their children.
What happens if a student or teacher tests positive for COVID-19?
If a student or teacher tests positive for COVID-19, parents will be immediately notified and children will be sent home. Our cleaning company will be contacted and the Center will be closed for at least one day to allow for a deep cleaning and sanitization of the space. If an individual tests positive, they will be required to quarantine for two weeks and receive two negative tests before returning to the Center.
Will students have free play time?
Yes! We believe that all children should have time to engage in activities that allow them to move their bodies and use their creativity. We have an entire room dedicated to free play. A place where students can play independently or with appropriate social distancing to engage their brains in a different way!
Will students be required to wear masks?
Yes. All students, staff, and volunteers, will be required to wear face masks while inside the center unless there are medical conditions that prevent them from doing so safely.
Will teachers and tutors be certified?
Our team will be led by our Student Success Coordinator who is a licensed teacher in the state of Virginia. Additionally, support staff, speciality tutors, and reading specialists will be credentialed based on their respective associations and other requirements. All Celebrate staff are required to undergo extensive National + Local Criminal Background Checks.
How is Celebrate partnering with Richmond Public Schools?
We believe that collaboration always leads to better and stronger programs. We are committed to working with RPS at both an administrative and school level. From best practices, curriculum management, to assignments and student behavior, our Student Success Coordinator will be responsible for making sure that the bridge between our Program and RPS is seamless.
Will Celebrate continue Birthday Programming?
Yes! We will continue celebrating more than 1,000 birthdays a year through our Birthday Bag Delivery programs and our Parties (if State Orders + Guidelines permit).
How can I help?
Thanks so much for asking! We couldn’t do this without you and need your help more than ever. If you’re interested in sending supplies, please consider checking out our Amazon Wishlist here.
Can I sign up for email updates?
Sure can! Enter your email below and we will make sure you get more information as it becomes available.
For more information, please reach out to Devin LaFata, Student Success Coordinator, at devin@celebraterva.org.