The Literacy Coalition, in partnership with the School District of Palm Beach County, created the Building Better Readers program to help students accomplish grade level reading. Now in its 10th year, Building Better Readers has expanded to serve 510 students from first through fourth grade in 33 schools and after school locations throughout Palm Beach County. The program has trained community volunteers who provide one-on-one reading tutoring for two or three children for at least one-hour each week over the school year. Building Better Readers is proving the power of consistent, one-on-one tutoring as it allows children to receive individualized instruction while they develop a bond with a positive adult role model who gets to know them, cares about them, and gives them opportunities to succeed.
At Citrus Cove Elementary, volunteer Joyce worked with two struggling readers in second grade. Brielle and Raelyn both started the year well below grade-level proficiency. Joyce developed a warm and fun relationship with both and loved her time spent reading to them. They focused on reading with meaning and fluency, and Joyce noticed a significant increase in their sight word recognition. At the end of the year, Joyce was thrilled when the classroom teacher shared that both girls scored on grade-level at the year-end statewide assessment. As the principal described it, “The greatest achievement!”
Penny, a volunteer tutor at Forest Park Elementary, also had a similar experience. She heard from the teacher about Neria, a second-grade student. “Neria scored at a 3.2 grade level equivalency on her state test. Penny really helped Neria and it paid off in a big way!” Neria started the year at intervention level, advanced to watch level, and made it to grade level. Neria’s teacher attributed the success to Penny’s time, kindness and compassion.
Each of our 285 trained volunteer tutors has success stories to share. From increased reading levels to increased confidence and motivation, the Literacy Coalition is grateful for the dedication and commitment of our volunteers that allow us to expand our reach and impact in Building Better Readers across Palm Beach County.
