Jill's Story

Jumping for Joy at a Child’s Success

I don’t know Jill personally, but when I first heard her story I wanted to jump for joy.  Instead I quietly listened to her tutor share Jill’s triumphant math story. I am often in awe of the work our tutors do, the work they’ve accomplished, and the heartbreak they share over students who are still struggling.  But on this day Nina, Jill’s tutor, was squirming in her chair she was so excited to share Jill’s success. 

Jill has 15 siblings and they are all in foster care, the youngest a one- year-old brother, and she’s been in foster care the majority of her life.  She’s moved around a lot and changed schools more times than she can count.  What’s amazing is that Jill was really only struggling with one subject.  Granted, she was really struggling, but Nina says it’s a testament to Jill’s ability to persevere that she was only struggling with math. 

At the beginning of her eighth-grade year Jill was working at a fourth-grade math level.  Her social worker thought Treehouse could help her catch up and referred her to us just after the start of the school year.  Jill comes to our after-school tutoring program twice a week with her caregiver to work on math.  Nina describes her as enthusiastic, always willing to help the other kids, and determined.  She takes responsibility for herself.  Her desire and commitment to doing better have paid off.

Her grades aren’t just better, they’re good.  So good that she’s on the honor roll!  With all that she’s been through it is humbling to know that what she’s most excited about is getting a certificate at the end of the school year that proves she is an honor roll student.

Jill's caregivers and tutors know that she's building an academic foundation that, combined with her tenacity and resiliency, will be the foundation for her long-term success.

For more information on Treehouse programs visit our website www.treehouseforkids.org