Dallas ISD’s drive to recruit 5,000 volunteer literacy tutors to improve student reading skills will culminate in a Volunteer Signing Day event at 6:30 p.m. tomorrow, Wed., Oct. 29, in the Underground Room at South Side on Lamar, 1409 S. Lamar St.
The search is on for civic-minded citizens from all walks of life willing to devote one hour per week to tutor struggling readers in district elementary schools. The need exists in all geographic areas of the city, so chances are no matter where you live or work, a nearby school has students who need your help.
Research shows that one-to-one tutoring is effective at improving students’ reading skills. In fact, students who cannot read by the third grade are considered at increased risk to drop out before high school graduation.
Superintendent Mike Miles said the literacy tutoring initiative will provide vital support to students. “Our students face many challenges on their path to a successful future, but with the right support they can overcome them all,” Miles said. “One-on-one tutoring is one of the most effective ways to give our students the individualized attention they need to grow. Working together, tutors, families and schools can help every student achieve.”
Prospective tutors can either attend the signing day event or sign up online by completing the Literacy Tutor Pledge/Interest Form. The link provides an overview of the initiative and discusses available training. All respondents who complete the interest form will receive an acknowledgment email and further instructions.
For more information about signing day and the literacy tutor initiative, contact Dallas ISD Volunteer and Partnership Services at (972) 925-5440, or volunteer@dallasisd.org.
