The Learning Community of Douglas and Sarpy Counties joins the Aspen Institute two-generation partnership network known as Ascend. As 2-Gen becomes a growing national movement, the Learning Community becomes the first Nebraska organization invited to join. Studies show the 2-Gen approach reduces poverty and improves learning.
In North and South Omaha, Learning Community partnerships with families produce inspiring results. In independent evaluations, children and families demonstrate the value of a 2-Gen approach in Intensive Early Childhood Education, Family Engagement, and Family Learning programs. L
Learning Community CEO David Patton says they’re honored by the invitation to join the Aspen Ascend network.
“This really positions the Omaha metro area with strong communities nationwide
using the two-generation approach to improve educational success. Collaborating in
this network will make our continuous improvement process even stronger,” said Patton.
The Learning Community’s most established program in South Omaha teaches parents about their role in education. In family activities and weekly classes, parents learn about daily routines to help children succeed in school. Learning new skills to communicate with teachers and navigating local schools is a top priority. That’s why English classes are designed for parents. The latest independent evaluations show the value of the program extends to children. In the latest results, their scores exceeded school district proficiency in reading and math.
The Learning Community Center of North Omaha, located at 1612 North 24 Street, hosts a six-school partnership in intensive early childhood preschool. And Parent University welcomes families in the area, with home-based services, as well as free courses to help families set goals and take the lead in their child’s education. Family engagement outcomes are promising and early childhood teaching teams now exceed national benchmarks for improving student achievement.
