America Reads
The Office of Civic Engagement matches Georgia State students with elementary school children to increase the children's reading skills.
What is America Reads? In 1997, President Clinton asked the higher education community to help "build a nation of readers" by establishing America Reads Programs in colleges and universities. In 1994, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) data showed that 40% of the nation's fourth graders were reading below the basic level. As a result, the major objective of America Reads is to have all children reading well and independently by the end of 3rd grade. Students who do not learn efficient reading skills are blocked from every other subject in their schooling.
What can you do? There is a great need for Georgia State students to commit to read with students throughout the school year. Georgia State students will be matched with a Reads site and will need to commit to read with students a minimum of one or two hours each week. Students that are eligible for Federal Work Study are encouraged to utilize this opportunity as a part of their financial aid program.
What can my student organization do? This is a great team building opportunity for student organizations. Your organization can choose to do a one day project or make an on-going commitment. There are many possibilities and serving together forms stronger bonds among college students. We are looking for student leaders to step forward and help start a Georgia State Reading Program. If you are interested, please contact the Office of Civic Engagement.
I think I'd enjoy this, but I'm just not sure... Try us out ! Come and volunteer with one of our programs for an afternoon. We are sure that you will enjoy the experience and you will make a commitment to stay. We only ask that as an America Reads tutor, you make an effort to be at your site every week. The children really look forward to you being there and we do not want to let them down.
Where can I go to sign-up? The Office of Civic Engagement is located in Suite 320 of the Student Center.
