Maslulim's Achievement and Learning Centers: Bridging Gaps and Building Personal Resilience
To address the challenges faced by children from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds, we established Maslulim’s Achievement and Learning Centers. These centers focus on closing educational, social, and life skills gaps while building personal resilience. The centers offer personalized tutoring, both one-on-one and in small groups, and maintain close communication with educators and parents to ensure a seamless learning experience across all aspects of the child’s life.
In response to the ongoing war in Israel, Maslulim is adapting its centers to meet the new needs of the children. Israeli children, along with all residents, are experiencing trauma—whether from personal loss or the wider effects of the conflict. Children from underprivileged neighborhoods, already living in poverty, are particularly vulnerable in these times, making them more exposed to the hardships brought by the war. Maslulim remains dedicated to supporting these children and their families through this crisis.
Currently, three Achievement and Learning Centers are in operation, with a fourth set to open in the coming months. Each center serves around 100 elementary-aged children, and we plan to expand to include middle school students as well.
Our dedicated educational team consists of coordinators, pedagogical consultants, professional teachers, remedial educators, and passionate volunteers who provide ongoing support to each child. This large team allows us to offer personalized attention, ensuring that every child receives the guidance they need.
Each child at our centers benefits from a tailored personal development plan designed to meet their individual abilities and needs. Throughout the year, children participate in workshops focused on learning strategies, life skills, time management, financial literacy, and other essential knowledge areas, equipping them with the tools and skills necessary for success.
In response to the ongoing war, we are enhancing our efforts to provide emotional support to the children, addressing the trauma they may be experiencing. Professionals will offer emotional resilience-building workshops on topics like self-efficacy and meditation to help them navigate these challenging times.
For our youngest learners, 1st graders participate in a special program aimed at strengthening reading and language skills to prevent future educational gaps.
Success factors:
1 . Consistent attendance at the center
2 . Increased dedication and seriousness toward studies
3 .Improved grades in language and mathematics
4 . Enhanced self-confidence and belief in their abilities
The Approach
Developing children's sense of competence and positive self-image
Reducing educational gaps
Providing personalized tutoring, either individually or in small groups, once a week
Offering an informal learning environment in the afternoons at neighborhood centers
Organizing special activities during holidays and school vacations
Enrichment in 21st-century skills, learning strategies, financial education, and more
Training and supporting professional staff and dedicated volunteers
Offering emotional support tailored to each child’s needs
"H., 13, is in his third year at the Maslulim Achievement and Learning Center in Bat Yam. Initially in a special education class, he transitioned to a regular class but struggled with reading, writing, and Hebrew, as it's not spoken at home. With the support of his tutor, Chaya, he improved his language skills, expanded his vocabulary, and made progress in math. Chaya also helped build his confidence through social activities and peer collaboration.
Despite schedule conflicts, H. made an effort to attend and even stayed late. At the end of the year, he proudly spoke at his graduation ceremony alongside Chaya. H. graduated with honors from 6th grade and continues to succeed in a special project at our center."