
First Grade READS
VBGrowSmart Office
Virginia Relay TTY
All Virginia Beach Public Library locations, including the TCC/Joint-Use Library, will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
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VBGrowSmart Office
Virginia Relay TTY
First Grade READS is a literacy tutoring program in Virginia Beach. By pairing striving first-grade readers with caring community volunteer tutors/mentors, we assist children in becoming confident, successful readers. Tutors receive intensive training in effective instructional techniques and increasing student engagement. Each month the children are given one free take-home book to build their home library and encourage reading outside of school.
Our local campaign, Virginia Beach READS, is our city's effort to energize the entire community around the critical issue of ensuring all children are reading on or above grade level by third grade.
Studies show the number of words a child knows when entering kindergarten is predictive of early learning success.
A child not reading at grade level by the end of first grade has an 88% chance of not reading at grade level by the end of fourth grade.
Children not reading proficiently by third grade are 4 times more likely to drop out of school.
After five months together my student asked me very seriously, was I going to be with her next year in the second grade.
Favorite Memory While Tutoring: Getting a hug from my student on the last day of reading with him.
I love interacting with the two little ladies I tutor. Different personalities but are very respectful and sweet. It's a blessing to see the progress they are making.
What I Like About Tutoring: Being able to be a positive influence on students; helping them enhance their reading abilities; and of course the hugs.

