About Us

photo©KarenSmul

Two third-graders from P.S. 126 in the Bronx identify the New York City bridges on a map.

Learning Leaders recruits, trains and supports up to 10,000 school volunteers who work with over 230,000 students — over one-fifth of the New York City public school population — in over 800 schools throughout the five boroughs.

Founded in 1956 as the New York City School Volunteer Program, Learning Leaders was the first program of its kind in the country and served as a model for developing school volunteer programs in other major cities. Learning Leaders has grown to become the largest school volunteer and parent engagement program in the city and a valued partner of the New York City Department of Education.

Results have shown that by introducing parent volunteers into schools, students are recording higher grade point averages and standardized test scores as well as better attendance, improved behavior and refined social skills.

For more than 50 years, Learning Leaders has helped students succeed by providing individualized instructional support through the implementation of the Fundamental Program, essentially the one-on-one tutoring model. This program establishes volunteers to assist with reading, writing, ESL, math and other academic activities at the elementary, middle school, and high school level, as well as non-instructional aid such as general office and library assistance.

Expanding on the Fundamental tutoring program, Learning Leaders developed enrichment programs that can supplement a student’s education beyond basic academic support. Please visit our Program page for in-depth information on all of Learning Leaders Fundamental and Enrichment programs!