YouthHQ@Goodwill, Goodwill Industries of the Valleys’ youth center in Roanoke, has been named as a Virtual Academy location for Roanoke City Public Schools (RCPS). Virtual Academys are possible through a partnership with the United Way Roanoke Valley, the City of Roanoke, local school systems, and area non-profits to ensure parents are able to keep their children on-track academically, while also having access to safe and supportive care for their children while the work. YouthHQ has the capacity to serve 45 students through the Virtual Academy and currently 28 students are enrolled.
“With braided CARES Act funding from the City of Roanoke, Roanoke City Public Schools, United Way, and Goodwill, YouthHQ is able to provide a safe, supportive, and structured environment for youth to complete their virtual schoolwork,” states Stephanie Hoer, Senior Director of Program Services at Goodwill. “Students are provided the opportunity to engage in creative and structured activities after their virtual school day in a supervised environment. The ability for families to send their loved ones to a single setting for the day can provide security and consistency for families.”
Goodwill staff are always present to provide technical support, to answer questions, and are in contact with RCPS teachers aiding the students need to be successful through this transition. Additionally, safety of students and the center staff is always top priority. VDH and CDC protocols are being strictly followed to ensure a safe environment for students while they learn.
“We are very excited at YouthHQ@Goodwill to assist our youth as they navigate through this new normal of virtual learning,” states Nicole Ross, Youth Center Manager. “Youth who participate are also able to have much needed engagement with their peers, while adhering to social distancing guidelines. We know there are more students who need the support of YouthHQ. Some may not even have signed onto their computers for schoolwork yet. It’s not too late, and we are here to support our students as they continue to navigate these difficult times.”
YouthHQ@Goodwill services during the school day are available for middle and high school students who enroll in Roanoke City Public Schools Virtual Academy through Smart2Start. Students must register to attend Virtual Academy through Smart2Start and select YouthHQ@Goodwill as their Virtual Academy. Breakfast and lunch are provided by RCPS for all participating students.
For more information on YouthHQ@Goodwill contact: Nicole Ross at (540) 581.0620 ext. 1228 or [email protected].
