The mission of The George B. Thomas, Sr., Learning Academy is to enhance student mastery of core academic subjects - specifically reading, language arts and mathematics - to prepare students for the challenges of college and careers. For 30 years, the Learning Academy has been working to eliminate the academic achievement gap. Through its signature program, Saturday School, the Learning Academy provides students in grades K-12 with a sixth day of instruction and personalized tutoring in reading, language arts, math and test-taking skills with certified teachers and trained volunteers. The goal is to help students complete high school and prepare for the challenges of college and career readiness by building academic competency, resiliency, and a life-long love for learning. The Learning Academy is able to give students this customized support through its strategic partnerships with Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), Montgomery Coalition for Adult English Literacy (MCEL), Americorps, Aristotle Circle tutors, and Achieving Collegiate Excellence and Success (ACES). Unlike other tutoring programs, the Learning Academy's curriculum is specifically aligned with the county curriculum and state standards. All lead tutors are highly-qualified certified MCPS teachers who teach the same subject areas during the week that are covered on Saturday.