Results
CalSERVES Reading Programs match caring adults with struggling elementary and middle school students to provide high-quality tutoring and mentoring in reading. This intensive, one-on-one program supports the personal development and reading ability of kindergarten through eighth grade students performing below grade level. Under teacher supervision, reading tutors work with students four days a week, following lesson plans designed to foster a love of reading. Tutors continue their connection with their students into the summer months through summer school and letter-writing. This program began in 1998 with funding from AmeriCorps and the U.S. Department of Education.
Comments about the CalSERVES Reading Program from college student AmeriCorps mentors:
"I learned to assess students’ reading levels, prepare lesson plans, and [play] many new games to make reading and writing fun for students."
"The past two years have given me tons of confidence in myself as a leader and someone who can get things done."
"Since I plan on becoming a teacher in the near future, this year has helped me with not only experience and content, but most of all confidence."
"Working with this program has helped me grow and assisted me on my way to becoming a teacher. The trainings helped teach me how to work with many programs and deal with many situations. . . . I had a great time!"
Activities
- Providing youth with intensive, one-on-one reading tutoring and mentoring throughout the year
- Organizing community service opportunities for youth and their families
- Creating trainings and learning opportunities for CalSERVES Reading Programs mentors
- Implementing staff development training for schools to support reading instruction and tutoring strategies
Accomplishments for 2006-07
- Provided direct service to 450 youth through tutoring, mentoring, and family programming
- Involved teachers at three school districts in the development of reading tutoring curriculum
- Engaged elementary and middle school students in over 70,000 hours of tutoring and mentoring
- Provided 100 college student AmeriCorps mentors with experience, skills, and support as tutors and community leaders
Contacts
Julie McClure: 707-586-9062, julie.mcclure@calserves.org
