ReadingPals: YOU can inspire Kindergarteners to read!

WOW – so much has happened in the last 250 years of America! Can you imagine not being able to read about who, where, what and when that formed our country? Help a kindergarten student have the tool to unlock the mysteries of the past and honor the contributions of all Americans. ReadingPals make that happen with just an hour once or twice a week on Tuesday and/or Thursday during the school day. Volunteers read to a kindergarten student a book that is above grade level to expose the student to a richer vocabulary and enhance their comprehension skills. Last year, students with a ReadngPals volunteer had test scores that were 9 points higher than those without a volunteer.

Marion County School District selects the schools, the books, and the students. Your mission is to read the selected book to a student. There are questions in each book to guide conversations. Each week the student takes home the book for their very own library. Just think of all the adventures you can share as you guide a struggling reader.

As a sample of the program, please view this information on our website (www.uwmc.org), under the impact category click on ReadingPals.