This summer, FUFSD is partnering with the Empire State Service Corps to provide targeted academic support for students in grades one through nine who did not meet grade-level expectations in English or math during the school year.

The tutoring program is led by Fernanda Maciel, a junior at SUNY Albany majoring in Human Development and Psychology. As part of her service with the Empire State Service Corps, Maciel is completing 300 hours of public service, offering personalized instruction in reading, writing and mathematics to help students strengthen their foundational skills.

“Our goal is to support and aim to enhance students’ skills in reading, writing and math by using a mix of iReady instruction and small group learning in specific areas that students may still have difficulty with,” Maciel said.

The Empire State Service Corps provides SUNY students with opportunities to engage in meaningful service work that contributes to their professional development and community impact. Participants are placed in cohorts aligned with their interests, with service sites on campus or in local communities. Focus areas range from food security to mental health, with K-12 tutoring being one of the seven core categories.

At S.S. Seward, Maciel works with students in small groups to foster a low-pressure learning environment that prioritizes individualized attention.

“Each student gets a different experience to address exactly what they’re struggling with,” Maciel said. “I think this is helpful for the students who may be struggling to ask for help in a large classroom.”

In addition to helping students build academic confidence, the program offers Maciel hands-on experience aligned with her academic and career goals.