Homework Huddle Boosts Student Academic Success

In the bustling world of education, one after-school program is making a significant impact on the academic journeys of young students at St. Bernard. Homework Huddle provides additional support for students in grades 3-8 to work on their homework. Started in 2016, this program not only aids students in conquering their academic challenges but also fosters essential skills such as organization and time management.

Homework serves as a bridge between classroom learning and independent application. However, not all students have access to the necessary resources and guidance to navigate their assignments effectively. Recognizing this gap, Homework Huddle steps in to provide a valuable service, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive academically.

Homework Huddle is offered after school on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays and meets for one hour. Intermediate students (grades 3-5) are led by Mrs. Shellenberger and Ms. Druar. Middle school students (grades 6-8) are led by Ms. Dudzik and Ms. Peper. The program is free for all students, eliminating financial barriers that may hinder a child’s access to academic support. This inclusive approach reflects the program’s dedication to promoting equality and ensuring that no student is left behind in their educational journey.

Students participating in the program are provided with quiet study spaces, allowing them to focus on their assignments without distractions. This designated space fosters concentration and helps students develop effective study habits that will benefit them throughout their academic careers. In addition, students are given the opportunity to receive one-on-one support in areas they are struggling with.

In 2020, Homework Huddle expanded to offer a Saturday session for students in grades 6-8. These sessions are held the Saturday before the end of the mid-trimester and the two Saturdays before the end of the trimester. Each session is offered from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. As the end of a mid-trimester or trimester approaches, the pressure to wrap up assignments and ensure all work is completed can be overwhelming for students. Recognizing this challenge, this dedicated time offers students the chance to catch up on any missing assignments and gives them a final push toward academic success.

“I am extremely proud of the program that we have built over the years. It started out with about 10 students total in grades 6-8. Now, we have 60-70 kids per session each week expanding through grades 3-8. The benefits of this program speak for themselves. We have parents asking about it every year, and it is one of those things that make St. Bernard a truly special place to learn,” said Ms. Dudzik, Homework Huddle founder and assistant principal.

“I really enjoy going to Homework Huddle each week. It gives me a chance to get my homework done and ask for extra help if I am stuck on something. I also like that my friends are with me, so it makes it a kind of cool place to hang out while still getting my work done,” said Hallier, a student who has attended the program for three years now.

Homework Huddle is more than an after-school program; it’s a catalyst for academic empowerment. By offering free support for students in grades 3-8, this initiative strives to bridge educational gaps, promote equality, and build a community of learners. Through quiet study spaces and personalized assistance in organization and time management, Homework Huddle is shaping the future by investing in the potential of young minds.


St. Bernard Catholic School (PK3-8) is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school with open enrollment serving preschool students and elementary students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. St. Bernard provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.