Mentoring at Risk Youths in Racine, Wisconsin: Counseling, tutoring, job training, and apprenticeship programs

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Quantum Opportunity Program
Quantum is a mentoring program that targets students entering high school who are at greatest risk of dropping out. Those students selected into the program will receive personal as well as group mentoring and tutoring over the four years of high school. In addition, students are provided personal development skills training and take part in community service activities.

Quantum's objective is to provide students with the necessary assistance and encouragement that will prevent them from dropping out of high school. Program goals also promote positive behavior in an effort to deter such problems as teen pregnancy and criminal behavior.

Quantum offers financial incentives for academic achievement and positive behaviors, such as school attendance and volunteering.

Quantum: a three part process

EDUCATION COMPONENT
The education goal is to assess the academic needs of each student and provide assistance through homework help, one-on-one tutoring, and computer-assisted instruction. Academics are tracked, so that effort and progress can be rewarded, problems immediately identified, and help provided. Academic goal setting and preparation for those students who are planning to go to college is also provided.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT COMPONENT
The development goal is to provide the student with a variety of personal development skills necessary for success in the home, school, workplace and community. Students will have the opportunity to engage in activities such as learning to ski, visiting a museum, or eating in a fine restaurant. Students will receive life skills training and attend discussion groups that will offer them coping strategies.

COMMUNITY SERVICE COMPONENT
The community service goal is to promote student involvement in extra-curricular activities and engage them in community projects. Students are encouraged to join clubs, organizations, and sporting activities, to become involved in public service events, and to volunteer.