Hudson Scholars Tutoring Returns to the Hilltop

“We are thrilled to reunite, in person, for our weekly tutoring sessions. Bringing our Scholars and mentors together each week is an important part of the program, as it serves to not only provide academic support to our Scholars, but also helps to maintain and strengthen the relationships between the Middle School students and the mentors,” shared Dave Sykes, Director of Hudson Scholars. “It is through such opportunities that everybody—Scholars and mentors alike—laugh, learn, and grow together. There is nothing quite like seeing all the smiles when the two groups get to spend time with one another.”   

The goal of this program, at its core, is to bring together Hackley students with Middle Schoolers from our local Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow community in new, dynamic ways that create enrichment opportunities for all involved.

Each Monday afternoon, up to 10 Hackley teachers and Upper School students make their way to the Warner Library in Tarrytown. There, they offer 90 minutes of tutoring and homework help to the Scholars—from 3:30 to 5 p.m. As a bonus for the Scholars, those who finish their work early are encouraged to read a book, engage in group activities—such as crossword puzzles and Sudoku—or play such games as chess, Scattergories, and Pictionary with the mentors. According to Sykes, the tutoring time is crucial for the Scholars, as each thrives when they have a quiet place to focus and dedicated time during the school week to connect with peers and mentors.

The Hudson Scholars program continued throughout the pandemic with such limitations as Zoom class sessions and remote guest speakers in 2020, and held several in-person activities in 2021. The first Hudson Scholars graduation was held in July 2021. In summer 2022, the program returned to the full scope of in-person activities, including an exciting partnership with the Westchester Children's Museum and local non-profit 914 Cares; an overnight excursion at the Taconic Outdoor Education Center; a campout on our campus for the 6th grade Scholars; a trip to the Wolf Conservation Center; and many inspiring discussions with guest visitors, including alumni, current Hackley parents, and Sleepy Hollow Mayor Ken Wray.

The Scholars and mentors now look forward to their next program reunion, which takes place on Saturday, Nov. 19. Read the most recent Hudson Scholars news here. To learn more about Hudson Scholars, browse the brochure here or visit the Hudson Scholars website.