Guiding Commitment

Literacy is the foundation of TEEM’s work. Every program includes a defined contribution to literacy through reading and writing instruction, opportunities to practice these skills, or connections to literacy support.

Vision
A community where African American and other underserved youth have the literacy skills, opportunities and confidence to shape their lives, pursue meaningful goals and contribute to their communities.

Mission
Strengthen literacy, nurture a love of learning and expand educational opportunities for African American and other underserved youth. Through reading and writing, science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM), college and career exploration, and family engagement, help young people develop the skills to shape their lives, discover their purpose, make informed decisions and develop confidence in their judgment.
 
Diversity

We support diversity and equality for all individuals irrespective of their gender, race, ethnic origin, disability, age, nationality, national origin, sexuality, religion or belief, marital status and social class.  We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.

Goals​

• Strengthen literacy and cultivate a love of learning. Provide reading and writing instruction guided by assessment and individual needs. Build comprehension and communication skills while giving students access to books, choices and experiences that encourage reading for pleasure, curiosity and lifelong learning.

• Connect learning to life through literacy and STEAM. Engage students in STEAM activities to encourage creativity, exploration and problem-solving. Help them apply reading and writing across subjects and everyday experiences to understand information, express ideas and explore possibilities.

• Support purpose and informed choices. Help young people discover their interests and strengths, explore what matters to them, set meaningful goals and consider the consequences of their choices. Encourage questions, reflection and confidence in their judgment.

• Expand educational and career opportunities. Help students and families explore and prepare for college, technical and trade schools, career training and other pathways. Connect them with professionals, resources and experiences that make opportunities and next steps understandable.

• Introduce Students to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). Help students and families explore their history, cultural significance, academic opportunities and campus life through campus visits, an annual HBCU community resource fair, and connections with students, alumni and college representatives.

• Equip parents and caregivers. Provide practical tools, resources and guidance to encourage reading and learning at home, understand their children’s progress, navigate the educational system and advocate for needed support.

• Build confidence and belonging. Create respectful learning environments where students feel valued, see their identities and experiences reflected, and feel comfortable asking questions and seeking help. Build confidence through practice, accomplishment and recognition of progress.

• Measure progress and improve programs. Assess literacy skills, document growth and participation, and gather student and family feedback about learning experiences, confidence and interest in reading. Use findings and quarterly Literacy Advisory Team review to improve instruction, identify continued support needs and strengthen programs.

• Build community partnerships and connect families with resources. Team with organizations whose services align with our mission and support the well-being of students and families. Share resources, coordinate efforts and promote one another’s programs to increase awareness of and access to community services and opportunities.