Men and women over 55, are a wealth of knowledge and role models for today’s youth. Yet, they don’t always have an outlet to share those experiences with others. Taking note of this dilemma, Beryl Katz, a former high school educator, parent and active community member, saw an opportunity to unite seniors with youth in order to enrich educational experiences in the classroom. In 1998, Beryl’s vision, Senior Adults for Greater Education became a reality in the Council Rock community. As more neighboring school districts inquired about the intergenerational program, S.A.G.E. incorporated into a not for profit organization in 2003.
Over the years, S.A.G.E. has been fortunate to work with some amazing volunteers who enjoy helping future generation learn while staying active and giving back to the community. For example, husband and wife duo, Matt & Nancy Korecki have volunteered in the Council Rock district for years. After hearing about S.A.G.E. through neighbors, they decided to give it a try. Giving history lessons and speaking about the importance of Veteran’s Day are just a few of the ways Matt and Nancy make a difference for students at Maureen Welch Elementary. The Korecki’s say it’s very important to emphasize teamwork and discipline through their interaction with students. These core values help shape students’ self-esteem and attitude towards others.
From time to time Matt has the opportunity to visit and work with other students within the Council Rock school district as well. Matt's most recent experience came in the form of a Mock Interview with 8th grade students at Newtown Middle School. The goal of the interview was to prepare students for seeking summer employment. Students were asked specific questions and graded on their conduct during interviews and answers to questions. Some example of questions were: tell me about yourself, why you want the job and what are your long term/short term goals. In addition, Matt also helped students learn about the emphasis dress, posture and eye contact play in the interview process.
Matt says, "The students were well prepared with their goals in focus. The interview was a gratifying experience and I hoped I helped a student prepare for the future."
Another successful intergenerational activity where a volunteer's past experiences will give students a "leg up" in today's competitive world. Thank you Matt!
To learn more about S.A.G.E. and how you can get involved, contact Beryl Katz at beasage03@aol.com
Over the years, S.A.G.E. has been fortunate to work with some amazing volunteers who enjoy helping future generation learn while staying active and giving back to the community. For example, husband and wife duo, Matt & Nancy Korecki have also volunteered in the Council Rock district for years. After hearing about S.A.G.E. through neighbors, they decided to give it a try. Matt, a retired veteran of the Air Force loves working with 1st graders because they are funny and show the utmost respect to adults. Giving history lessons and speaking about the importance of Veteran’s Day are just a few of the ways Matt and Nancy make a difference for the great students at Maureen Welch Elementary. The Korecki’s say it’s very important to emphasize teamwork and discipline through their interaction with students. These core values help shape students’ self-esteem and attitude towards others.
March 24, I participated in a Mock Interview with 8th grade students at Newtown Middle School. The goal is to prepare students who will seek summer employment
and how to conduct themselves during the interview. Students were asked specific questions and graded on their answers. Example of questions: tell me about
yourself, why you want the job, long term/short term goals. Also graded were dress, posture, eye contact, filler words etc. The students were well prepared with their goals
in focus. The interview was a gratifying experience and I hoped I helped a student prepare for the future.
Matt Korecki, (13 year SAGE Volunteer)
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