What is the PASSIONS Program?
PASSIONS (Putting Alternative Structured Studies in our Neighborhood Schools) was created to address the need in San Jose/Silicon Valley schools for more extracurricular programs. Teachers find themselves burdened with teaching not just regular curriculum, but arts, vocational studies, and other areas they are not learned in or passionate about. As a result, students often miss out on opportunities to get involved in, let alone excel in, fields they are not required by state guidelines to learn about.
There is a wealth of knowledge and talent in the community that can help with this issue... namely high school and college students. Many of these people need community service or service learning hours, or require experience working with children for internships or other credits. Additionally, they are skilled in areas that children may be able to participate in, if only their schools provided such classes or programs.
With that in mind, high school and college students are recruited to join PASSIONS as volunteer teachers to run or assist with programs that are desired or needed in local schools. For instance, a high school student who loves basketball may help coach elementary school students in that sport during or after school.
Times, frequencies, locations, and more vary by the school. Volunteers may be asked to volunteer as little as an hour once or twice a week. Students interested in participating are encouraged to complete an application (recommendations are required only by certain schools, and do not need to be completed initially).
There are multiple opportunities to be a part of a child's life while also gaining valuable experience. Please don't hesitate to ask questions or suggest schools not featured on the PASSIONS website!
Current Partnerships
Mission San Jose High School
De Anza College
San Jose State University
Mission College
About the Program Director
Sara Wright is an honors graduate of Cal Poly - San Luis Obispo, and currently works with middle-school youth throughout San Jose to encourage them to get involved in community service and social issues affecting the area. She is a former San Jose State University student of the multiple subject credential program. Additionally, she has been involved in public service for 12 years, as an individual or through leadership positions in such service organizations as Key Club, Circle K, and Alpha Phi Omega.
