ABOUT US
Vela means “come out and shine” in Xhosa
and “candle” in Spanish.
The VELA Scholars program provides Amherst Regional Middle School (ARMS) students with learning and enrichment opportunities after regular school hours beyond what might otherwise be available to them. We work hard to increase students’ confidence, social, and emotional well-being, as well as their academic performance. By working with teachers, interns, community partners, and other students in the classroom and beyond, VELA hopes students will:
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Increase core competencies and comprehension in academic subjects
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Engage in intellectually stimulating and personally interesting projects and activities
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Prevent the loss of recently learned skills and knowledge
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Feel a greater connection to ARMS and the local community
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Have fun while learning!
A Partnership With The Collaborative for Educational Services & Amherst Regional Middle School
Volunteer with VELA!
Provide academic support and enrichment for middle schoolers and positively engage with the Amherst Community
VELA seeks volunteers who are outgoing, open-minded, and in-tune with culture and diversity. Volunteers must commit to working with the program 1-2 times per week (Monday - Thursday) from 2:00-5:45pm. Prospective volunteers can submit a resume & letter of intent.
Contact:
Nancita Alejandro, VELA Coordinator
Address:
Amherst Regional Middle School, 170 Chestnut Street, Amherst, MA 01002
TRANSPORTATION
UMASS campus: Take PVTA #35 or 34 to Chestnut St. stop and go down Chestnut St.
Amherst College campus: