First year volunteer Stacy Fitzwater teaches 5th and 6th grade music, religion, computers, reading, and phys. ed. First year volunteer Jorge Gonzalez teaches 6th grade science, computers, reading, and phys. ed.
There is a tremendous need in Newburgh, one of the most impoverished and educationally depressed areas in New York State, but San Miguel Academy is striving to help students who are several years behind grade level improve. Newburgh lies in one of the most beautiful areas of the state, in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains on the Hudson River, and is also just an hour train ride from New York City. The cultural and recreational opportunities abound.
San Miguel School began in 2006 with only a fifth grade, while a new grade level will be added each year until 2009. The site is the second floor of the Sunday school space of the First Methodist Church. There are 5 classrooms and a large assembly area, which serves as the cafeteria, library, and meeting space. A gymnasium is available on a limited basis, and a small park next to the church. The students are impoverished and generally well below grade level, but are motivated to learn.
