Programs
SCHOOL LIBRARY RENOVATION PROGRAM
It all begins with the library.
The Wonder of Reading works with partner schools to design and renovate
new libraries that become vibrant centers of learning. These libraries
provide the opportunity for children and their families to have
access to a wide selection of books to read, and read often.
The application process is competitive, ensuring partner schools
are committed and willing to provide long-term support. The entire
elementary school, school district and neighborhood come together
and assume responsibility for the construction, developing a strong
sense of ownership.
The Wonder of Reading provides resources, funding, design, and
planning, to make the libraries come to fruition. New libraries
feature carpeted story steps for group reading, individual work
stations for tutoring and a cozy corner for quite reading.
In the end, it’s not just the school that gets a library – it’s
the community. And when the community gathers to cut the ribbon,
it’s not just an opening, it’s a celebration.
BOOK RESTOCKING PROGRAM
We provide resources to help our new partner schools eliminate
outdated and ruined books and then we fill their new library with
$10,000 worth of new volumes.
LITERACY GRANTS
Literacy Grants of up to $5,000 are awarded to partner schools to
help keep their book inventories updated with fresh copies of old
favorites, as well as newly published titles. In 2008 alone, $96,000
worth of Literacy Grants were awarded to local partner elementary
schools.
VOLUNTEER READING PROGRAM
Nothing inspires a child’s curiosity, confidence, and growth like
the committed attention of a trained, caring adult. The Volunteer
Reading Partner Program assists schools with volunteer recruitment,
training, and retention. Volunteers are taught to work with struggling
students, ensuring they spend time with a book on a regular basis,
and encouraging their enjoyment of reading.
ENHANCED VOLUNTEER READING PROGRAM
The Wonder of Reading has launched a pilot program at two schools
that will strengthen our Volunteer Reading Program and generate
valuable data, quantifying its effectiveness. A credentialed teacher,
funded by The Wonder of Reading, is placed on site along with a
research-based computer software program from Pearson Digital Learning
to develop individualized lesson plans.
Instruction is done both one-on-one and in small groups to monitor
and improve each student's reading skills. In addition, dedicated
Volunteer Reading Partners review progress reports before their
weekly reading time to provide the additional support, guidance,
and encouragement that helps foster the child's love of reading.
This close collaboration ensures real results for the children who
need it most.
FAMILY READING PROGRAM
A child’s passion for reading needs nurturing at home as well as
at school. The Wonder of Reading assists schools in delivering the
Family Reading Program, founded by The Walt Disney Company. This
program provides comprehensive workshop materials, trains family
members to develop their children’s reading skills at home, and
includes a Village Read-In that puts into practice what both the
family and the child have learned. Online
ordering of the Family Reading Program available soon! To order
the Family Reading Program now, please contact Andrew Hodgson at
(323) 634-7110 or ahodgson@wonderofreading.org.
VISITING AUTHOR PROGRAM
Imagine a child hearing a book read by the very person who wrote
it. For a child who has rarely been read to, it is a captivating
and unforgettable experience. The Wonder of Reading enlists
the participation of children’s book authors and illustrators to
visit our partner schools, to share the story of how their books
came to be, and to describe what gave them the confidence to bring
their stories into the world.
PRINCIPALS' FORUM
Principals’ responsibilities and workloads are tremendous, and the
resources they need are in short supply. The Wonder of Reading helps
build a peer network of support. The Principals’ Forum, an annual
event, is a valuable opportunity for principals to meet and share
experiences and best practices. Principals are also recognized with
an Outstanding Educator Award, celebrating their work on behalf
of the students and their communities.
If you are interested in learning
more about any of our programs listed above, or if you are interested
in volunteering for The Wonder of Reading please contact Andrew
Hodgson at (323) 634-7110 or ahodgson@wonderofreading.org.
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