As 2014 draws to a close, we’re taking some time to review our first year as Speakeasy Solutions. Running a small company can be a challenge because you are responsible for everything from the services you provide to marketing to cleaning. Despite some minor setbacks, we think this year has been successful. Here's a brief look at what we've accomplished this year.
In January, we opened for business providing in-home private tuition to a small cadre of clients focusing on the development of reading, writing and critical thinking skills. Parents reported improvements in their children’s oral expression as well as increased enthusiasm for reading and studying.
At the end of the June, as the school term closed for the July/August holiday, one of our students experienced a 23% increase in test scores on her National Test Exam. On the whole, our students experienced an average 8% increase in scores on End of Term exams and overall performance throughout the school the year.
In July, we hosted our first summer camp, Work, Craft & Play! for children aged 7-11 which included educational enrichment in math, science and English as well as field trips, arts & crafts, educational games and two workshops – a Creative Writing Workshop hosted in conjunction with the Point Fortin Public Library and a Health & Family Life Education Workshop facilitated by reproduction & health rights activist Nicole Hendrickson.
In September, we officially announced the opening of our learning centre where all classes and workshops would be held for the rest of the year. The centre includes a library and is wi-fi-equipped.
In October, we expanded our services to include instruction in English as a Second Language providing customized English language lessons for Spanish speakers centred on both Standard English and Trinidadian Dialect.
In December, WE FELT EXTREMELY APPRECIATED! Throughout the year, our students have presented us with Thank You cards, artwork, flowers, roasted corn, mangos and even pastelles. These gifts were beautiful, touching and have provided us with some much needed encouragement to continue in 2015.