Dec 10

Tackling Teens – Working With Students in Group Homes

This presentation covers some of the challenges working with students in group homes. The presenters for this workshop have tutored at multiple group homes for boys and bring their expertise in addressing subjects such as how to build rapport, finding a student’s grade level, creating relationships with shelter staff, dealing with behavior issues and reluctance, and exploring practical and fulfilling options for the students’ futures. Many tutors worry that working with teens is too challenging. This presentation dispels that myth and offers helpful solutions to many of the issues School on Wheels tutors face.

About the Hosts:

Mathangi Suresh recently graduated from the University of California Berkeley with a Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Biology. Pursuing a career in surgery, Mathangi is planning on continuing her education in medical school. Mathangi loves interacting with people and knew that becoming a tutor would allow her to do that and make a difference in the lives of others. Mathangi joined School On Wheels as a volunteer tutor and began tutoring in group homes for boys in the Chino Valley. Through her experiences, Mathangi has enjoyed teaching as well as learning from her students and is proud to be a part of School On Wheels.

Song Jeong is in her final year of college at California State University, Fullerton and is pursuing a career in Special Education and School Administration. Song joined School On Wheels this past summer as a volunteer tutor and began tutoring in group homes for boys in the Chino Valley. From her experiences, Song has learned how to build a rapport with her students and tackle behavior issues. Song knows her tutoring experiences are helping to build the foundation for her future career.

Loreena Garcia is the School on Wheels Regional Coordinator for East San Gabriel Valley and western San Bernardino County. Loreena has worked in the non-profit field for over ten years, previously with Special Olympics Southern California, Fair Housing Foundation, Opportunity House Homeless Shelter, and Child S.H.A.R.E. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in History and Liberal Arts from the University of Dallas and is currently finishing up a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. Loreena has worked with the homeless and at-risk populations for many years, and is an active volunteer and advocate for foster children and individuals with intellectual disabilities.

About the Presentation Content Creator:

Amber Christon is an aspiring epidemiologist currently majoring in Biochemistry and Public Health at Berkeley City College with plans to transfer to a four year university. Amber joined School On Wheels this past summer and began volunteering in group homes for boys in Chino Valley. Amber enjoys the challenges working with teens brings and has learned a lot about building relationships and public service from her experiences.