The mission of the Washington Reading Corps (WRC) program is to improve the reading abilities of K-6 students across Washington State and to be a positive mentor to those targeted students. It has achieved this since 1998 through research-based tutoring of struggling readers and effective collaborations among schools, families, community members, National Service, local businesses, and state partners. It is also achieved by developing a caring relationship with the students, cultivating a love of reading and learning within those students, and providing a nurturing and safe environment that will build a child's confidence.
That's the official description of the WRC, but you'll hear a more real story from the members. They are the ones who can really tell you how students are influenced by Reading Corps members, and how the experience has influenced them as well.
"Every day I take home at least one memory or story of each child's progression down to the smallest form," wrote one member this year.
"Watching the students' interest in books and letter knowledge grow throughout the year has impacted me profoundly. It has been amazing to see the children grow as early learners," wrote another.
And then there are the happy moments that make it all worth it: "A couple of weeks ago I was leaving school late and walking to my car by myself. Out of nowhere I heard my name being called and turn to see a pink blur flying toward me. Before I could even blink I realized that it was [a girl I tutor] coming at me with arms open wide. When she hugged me she said that she just wanted to come tell me thanks. I did not have a chance to say anything before she was running back toward the school. I am used to getting and giving hugs often, but this one felt like it meant something different—it was an awesome 'thank-you.'"
WRC members serve on mini-teams at Elementary schools or Early Learning centers and become an integral part of the effort to help struggling readers. They also participate in service activities and training with other members across North Central Washington. This allows for sharing of ideas and building lasting relationships with other dedicated individuals to impact the lives of children.
All elementary school members will be involved with direct service to the students they serve through the following activities:
Early Learning members will have a slightly different focus:
Members will also be involved with community involvement through these activities at least 4 hours per week:
Positions for 2011-12 will be at schools below. Sites for 2012-13 will be posted in the spring and will represent similar school districts and regions.
| School | Grades | Position Available? | Team Size | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oroville | K-6 | filled for 2011-12 | 2 | Oroville | visit |
| Bridgeport | K-5 | filled for 2011-12 | 2 (plus 1 SET) | Bridgeport | visit |
| Paul Rumburg | K-6 | filled for 2011-12 | 3 | Entiat | visit |
| Kenroy | K-4 | filled for 2011-12 | 4 | East Wenatchee | visit |
| Grant | K-4 | filled for 2011-12 | 1 | East Wenatchee | visit |
| Brewster | K-6 | filled for 2011-12 | 2 (plus 2 SET) | Brewster | visit |
| Manson | K-6 | filled for 2011-12 | 1 | Manson | visit |
Big Bend |
Ages 2-5 (Early Learning) |
filled for 2011-12 | 3 | Moses Lake | visit: 1 2 |