Ethan Strimling, Chief Executive Officer of Learning Works Speaker
October 16th Meeting
Jared introduced Ethan Strimling, Chief Executive Officer of Learning Works described on their website as “Providing the best learning opportunities in Southern Maine for at-risk youth, the immigrant community, and low-income families.” http://www.learningworks.me/. During his introduction, Jared also mentioned that Ethan wears two hats. His other specialty is political analysis.
He explained that they work with average kids from the immigrant community with focus on education. He asked the question, how do we move kids out of the cycle? He responded by saying “by teaching kids how to fish”.
In addition, Learning Works provides tutoring in schools to assist kids who have been falling behind. Presently there are 100 kids being served with 50 on a waiting list. Approximately 1,500 kids have been served.
He holds his staff to a very high standard. Employment is between 50 to 60. Presently, 62% of their clients are achieving their goals.
He described a state inspection where most of the effort was focused on code items such as height of electrical outlets. He asked why more attention was not directed to education. He feels that the public’s money should not be wasted. He has said to fellow Democrats they should recognize that it is not OK to waste money. “Public money is sacred. Use it wisely!” He emphasized the need to be able to measure results so that you can better manage.
As a 501-C-III non-profit they have seen their revenues increase to $3,000,000. He emphasized that they are not following the money. But, they are attracting the money. Besides government funding, they are recipients of many private donations and grants.
As he concluded, he asked for donations of any unused calculators for their study program.