Empowering

Every Student

to Succeed

About us

Welcome to The Learning Circle!

The Learning Circle (TLC) is a 501(c)(3) certified non-profit organization dedicated to empowering students through education, collaboration, and community service. We foster a culture of giving back and peer-to-peer learning, where students not only learn but also contribute to the success of their peers. Our mission is to make quality education accessible to all, particularly students from low-income families, by creating a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

Our Mission

Aim to Create a Culture of Collaboration

We aim to create a culture of collaboration and peer-to-peer learning where students from all backgrounds work together to excel academically. By encouraging peer support and volunteerism, we bridge the educational gap for underserved students while promoting community responsibility.

Our Story

Founded by students, for students, TLC began with a simple idea: students helping students succeed. In January 2023, Riya Patel pitched the idea of a student-run summer math program at the Edison Board of Education. This led to the creation of The Learning Circle under the guidance of Dr. Eddie Aldarelli, Superintendent of Edison Township Public Schools. Watch Riya’s speech

In August 2024, Neal Patel, alongside other TLC volunteers, presented a proposal to the Woodbridge Township School Board to start a Pre-Algebra and Algebra enrichment program. This led to the creation of the Pre-Algebra and Algebra enrichment program across five middle schools under the guidance of Superintendent Dr. Joseph Massimino and Assistant Superintendent Paul Postorino. Watch Neal’s speech

Today, TLC collaborates with local school districts to offer enrichment programs designed to foster academic excellence and community responsibility. To date, TLC tutored 200+ students and contributed 1000+ volunteer hours.

Values

Core Values

Peer-to-Peer Learning

We believe students can learn best from one another. Our programs foster environments where students teach, mentor, and inspire their peers to grow academically and personally.

Collaboration

Learning together, growing together. Our programs thrive on teamwork, ensuring students not only receive help but also give back to their community.

Giving Back

Empowering others through peer support, our volunteers and students contribute to the community by sharing their knowledge and skills.

Community Impact

Making a difference through service, our goal is to uplift communities by offering educational support to those who need it most.

Review from Volunteers

My experience with The Learning Circle has been incredibly rewarding. Volunteering as a tutor has not only allowed me to give back to my community, but it has also helped me grow as an individual. The atmosphere is supportive and collaborative, and I’ve seen firsthand how peer-to-peer learning can transform students’ lives. Watching my students gain confidence and excel academically has been the highlight of my volunteering journey. I’m proud to be part of such a dedicated organization!

Collaborative Partnerships

At The Learning Circle, success is built on collaboration. Our partnerships with schools and educational organizations create an environment of peer-to-peer learning, giving back, and academic growth. These partnerships ensure that students have access to essential resources, spaces, and expertise.

Woodbridge Township School District

We proudly collaborate with the Woodbridge Township School District to offer our Pre-Algebra and Algebra Enrichment Program. This partnership enables middle school students to learn from high school peers through tutoring and mentoring. By working closely with the district, we ensure our programs align with the curriculum and meet students’ academic needs.

Edison Township School District

Our Homework Hub and Summer Math Program are run in collaboration with the Edison Township School District. The district has provided invaluable support by offering classroom spaces and ensuring a conducive learning environment. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to student success and academic excellence.

PALS Learning Center

Our partnership with PALS Learning Center, a for-profit education organization, enhances the quality of our programs. PALS provides us with training materials and software, such as EdQuill, that we use in tutoring sessions. Their commitment to educational excellence strengthens our ability to deliver results through collaborative learning.

What parent say

TLC has been an amazing experience for my child. The peer-to-peer model really works, and I’ve seen a huge improvement in both confidence and performance

Ramona Altenwerth