A program that pairs community volunteers with Dayton ISD elementary students for one-on-one reading practice is preparing to return in January, and organizers are hoping more residents will volunteer their time to help young readers succeed.
Pastor Guy Williams of First Methodist Dayton spoke about the Reading Buddies program during the Trinity Valley Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 10, encouraging business owners, employees and other community members to get involved.
Williams said the program began approximately six or seven years ago with a simple goal: Give children additional reading practice with an adult who cares about their success.
“All you need to know how to do is read and be willing to show up and do so with a Dayton ISD student for about a half hour a week for six weeks,” Williams said.
The program pairs volunteers with students at Dayton Elementary School for 30-minute reading sessions once a week over a six-week period. This year’s program will focus primarily on second-grade students, an age group Williams said is particularly important for developing strong reading skills.
He explained that educators generally consider the end of third grade a critical milestone in a child’s education. By that point, students are expected to transition from learning how to read to using reading skills to learn other subjects.
Students who have not developed grade-level reading skills by then can face additional challenges throughout their education.
Williams said even a small amount of individual attention can make a meaningful difference for students who need additional practice.
“Just a little bit of extra time in the saddle, reading and going over that really makes a big difference,” he said.
He also pointed to the broader consequences of poor reading proficiency, explaining that educational outcomes can be associated with higher dropout rates and other challenges later in life.
The Reading Buddies program is designed to provide additional support alongside the instruction students already receive in the classroom.
The next six-week session is expected to begin in late January and continue into early March. Volunteer registration will take place over the next couple of months, with information expected to be shared through social media and Trinity Valley Chamber of Commerce communications.
Williams said the program has received strong support from the community in previous years, including volunteers from local real estate businesses, city offices and other professions.
He thanked those who have participated and encouraged others to consider making room in their schedules for the upcoming session.
Williams said he appreciates the willingness of community members to invest their time in helping local children become better readers.
“We’re really excited about it. We appreciate how well our community supports this investment in the kids in our community,” he said.
Residents interested in volunteering or learning more about the Reading Buddies program may contact Williams at guy@firstumcdayton.org.