research-backed

From regular student assessment to contracting for independent studies, Reading Partners systematically collects, analyzes, and uses data to generate knowledge, improve programs, and report on impacts.

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science of reading

The established and growing research we have about how students learn to read, including systemic phonics education.

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individualized

A facet of high-dosage tutoring in which a tutor offers one-on-one attention to their student, resulting in targeted support, and personalized literacy learning.

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high-dosage

The frequency of a learning experience. For example, Reading Partners students receive twice weekly tutoring for maximum growth.

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educational equity

Ensuring every student, no matter their race, gender, socioeconomic level, or location has access to the resources and support they need to succeed in school and in life.

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A better chance to thrive

April 5, 2016

by A better chance to thrive

By: Mike Holloway, volunteer reading partner in Dallas, TX

I am tutoring because I want to demonstrate, by my physical presence, time, and emotional commitment, that:

  1. I care about the plight of children living in poverty whose parents may not have the time, education, or self confidence to read to their children.
  2. By our efforts, the kids will see and thus KNOW that we are rooting for them to succeed (we ALL need fans rooting for us, the more the merrier, in my experience).
  3. The kids will improve their reading skills, and thus have a better chance to thrive in years ahead.
  4. The kids will not become discouraged about their potential futures, but will see they CAN succeed in life, and CHOOSE their own path, no matter the obstacles they may face.

Having written all those flowery words (every one of them as honest as I know how to be, but wordy, as usual), I would honestly boil it down to the fact that, as the simple song says:  “I want to be like Jesus”, by, as He said: “Loving my neighbor as myself”.


Celebrate National Volunteer Week with Reading Partners! Share your story of volunteering on our website or use #ProudReadingPartner on social media.

Read more stories on our blog.

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