Community Services Program

America Reads program benefits students and tutors

Perhaps the most common idea of learning in college involves students sitting in large lecture halls on campus while a professor endeavors to teach them, this is certainly one definition of the word. Students involved in America Reads program, however, my find some of their memorable lessons come from outside the classroom.

The America reads chapter based out of Umass Dartmouth takes those interested in community service, work-study jobs, or volunteer work. It is dedicated to ensuring students from two local elementary schools start and continue to read at grade level throughout their time at school. During the 2003-2004 academic year, a combined 39 tutors completed over 4,000 hours of tutors at Sgt. W. H. Carney Academy in Dartmouth and the Hayden McFadden Elementary School. Current UMD senior Lauren Stencel was one of those tutors.

"It was a perfect fit. I knew I wanted to work with kids. I would recommend the America Reads program to anyone. It is a wonderful experience," said Stencel, who added that she plans to return as a tutor next semester. "The kids are so happy to see you come in; it doesn’t take long for them to get attached."

Stencel’s involvement in America Reads is especially notable considering her academic major at UMD: Chemistry.

"America Reads is a wonderful change fro everything else I as doing," she laughed.

Lynne LaBerge is the contact for America Reads at the Hayden McFadden Elementary School in New Bedford. In addition, LaBerge serves as a liaison for the Community Schools for Career Success at the school. She praised the America Reads program for providing valuable help in another educational area.

"It is one of the tools that helped our MCAS scores improve this past year," she stated, adding that Hayden Academy is one of the largest elementary schools in the district.

When asked what one phrase or sentence she would use to convince someone to become involved in America Reads, LaBerge selected the Hayden McFadden School motto of "Together we can make a difference."

"I think that sums it up," she said. "People get involved from all different majors and backgrounds. The kids are always excited to see someone young and new enter the room. Sometimes just being here helps."

Carney Academy in Dartmouth is another local school UMD students can volunteer as a part of the America Reads Program Over the last school year, a total of 23 UMD students served as tutors in that school. The contact person for America Reads at the Academy is parent liaison Deirdre Lopes.

"Getting involved in the America Reads program is a win-win situation for all involved. Many times, the kids do not have anyone around to regularly stay connected with. This program lets them know that other opportunities do exist for the out there."

Lopes, who is in her third year of involvement with the program, continued, "America Reads truly impacts everyone involved. Some people may not see the effects right away, but everyone can make a difference."

Any UMD student can volunteer to become an America Reads tutor. The position runs through each semester, training is provided and schedules are flexible. In addition, some tutors may be able to use the position to earn academic credit, receive an internship or wok-study and qualify for scholarships. For more information stop by the Career Resource Center on the ground floor of Group I or contact community service Coordinator Deirdre Healy at 508-999-8641.