The project encourages children to publish their writing by creating bound books, which may be added to classroom libraries. This is a national program through Ohio State and Lesley College. Efforts to teach English as a Second Language include an after-school club on Fridays and tutoring in which parents volunteer to teach other adults English. Northeastern University graduate students in the speech pathology program evaluate all kindergartners and then develop individual learning plans for all children. The program is initiated, planned and carried out locally to meet immediate needs.
Funding comes from a state grant and local contributions.
The program, which began in 1995, maintains an office at the school. Since 1995, the Partners in Excellence-Homework Help has expanded, from helping sixth graders to aiding those in third, fourth and fifth grades after school. Adults and National Honor students from Arlington High volunteer two nights a week to do school work and activities. Donations from businesses and individuals buy snacks and supplies. Michael McCabe, Thompson School principal, provided most of this information.