Community Based Learning Centers - Since 1996

The Black Student Achievement Program Community Based Learning Center (BSAP-CBLC), committed to reaching out to serve, sees every child as an asset to his or her community. We believe that every child should have the opportunity to grow in a safe and nurturing environment, experience wonderful and exciting things, and use their assets to achieve academic excellence. We believe that young people should learn the skills necessary to interact with many different types of people, and feel empowered to shape the world around them.

The BSAP-CBLC exists to provide a daily experience, which helps youth build a strong commitment to learning, use their time constructively, develop strong social skills, and to have a positive impact in their community

The focus of the Community Based Learning Center is to accelerate academic achievement with a primary focus on reading, mathematics and learning behaviors that impact student learning. Students receive assistance with daily homework assignments and are expected to read 15-20 minutes per day and participate in mathematics, reading chess, and/or computer activities.

Each day begins with a unity circle where students share accomplishments, discuss and/or review goals and recite the Six Ps. (Prompt, Productive, Polite, Persistent, Prepared and Proud). A healthy snack is provided daily.

Family involvement goals for the Learning Centers are designed to include grandparents, older siblings, close neighbors, friends and mentors. Parent communications include newsletters, home visits, phone calls, family workshops, and on site conferences. Parents are also assisted in understanding their child's educational progress and have opportunities to review and discuss interim reports and report cards from the school their child attends during CBLC Parent Information Meetings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are BSAP Learning Centers community programs or school system programs?

The BSAP Community Based Learning Centers is a program of the Howard County Public School System. The Community Based-Learning Centers operate in collaboration with specific community organizations and other extended day/week school system programs.

Q: Where are all of the BSAP Community Based Learning Centers located?

The (CBLC) are the result of a collaborative effort between the Department of Student, Family and Community Services of the Howard County Public School System, the Columbia Housing Corporation, Howard County Housing, Recreation and Parks and a host of other valuable partners. The centers provide homework assistance, tutoring, academic skills training, mentoring and field trips. The CBLC staff also work to foster parent and community involvement in student learning and achievement. The locations are:

Q: When are the CBLCs in session?

The CBLCs are open for 2 hours Monday – Thursday for students from September – May. Students are expected to arrive immediately after school and participate in the CBLC activities for the designated time at their site. Parents/Guardians will be asked to complete a permission slip for special Fun-Friday Initiatives.

Centers are not in session on holidays, when schools are closed for students or when schools are in session for 1/2 day. In the event it is necessary for the Superintendent to close schools for a full day or close schools early due to inclement weather or other emergencies, the Community-Based Learning Centers will be closed.

Q: How are the CBLCs staffed?

All sites are staffed with a Site Coordinator and Assistant Site Coordinator, Student Assistants and/or Volunteers. Every paid staff person must complete the formal hiring process through the HCPSS Human Resources Temporary Services Office. Most of the CBLC staff members have some other formal relationship to the HCPSS (i.e. they are academic mentors, instructional assistants, or classroom teachers).

Q: Do CBLC staff receive formal training?

Yes. The Site Coordinators receive monthly information and training sessions. There are quarterly Professional Development meetings for all staff members. In addition, all staff receives on-site support and technical assistance.

Q: How many students does a CBLC generally serve?

Depending on the size of the site, a CBLC can serve from 15 to 30 students.

Q: Is there any communication between the CBLC and the school my child attends?

Yes. The Site Coordinator collaborates with the school staff on a regular basis. The Site Coordinator will contact the child's teacher if homework is missing, if the child is having difficulty with an assignment, if the child is being recognized for participation in special initiative or project at the CBLC. The Site Coordinator makes every effort to keep the school abreast of the child's success.

Q: How can parents/guardians support this program?

Parents play a vital role in the success of this unique after-school program. Parents can support the program by: making sure their children attend the program each day and on time, review the Six Ps on a regular basis, attend all Parent Information Meetings, donate snacks, chaperone field trips, check homework, talk to others about the program, and volunteer at the site whenever possible.

Q: Is there anyone I can contact when I have questions, ideas or concerns?

Yes. Start with your child's Site Coordinator. You can also contact Loretta Thompson, Administrative Assistant, 443-367-1681 or Patricia Branner-Pierce at patricia_branner-pierce@hcpss.org.