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[GUAM] Samples of America Reads Challenge National Service Initiatives
HANDS ON ATLANTA AMERICORPS 931
America Reads Contact: Richard Hyde
Monroe Drive, Suite 208
Atlanta, Georgia
E-mail: servmail@mindspring.com
Internet Adress: http://www.handsonatl.org
Telephone: 404/872-2252
Fax: 404/872-2251
Participation: Since 1989, Hands On Atlanta has supported parents, teachers, and students in Atlanta's schools through our AmeriCorps program and volunteer projects. Each day, Hands On Atlanta touches the lives of more than 4,000 children!
Tutoring: Hands On Atlanta READ is the dynamic new literacy program developed by Hands On Atlanta AmeriCorps. Hands On Atlanta READ provides 1 on 1 reading assistance for students who are currently reading below grade level. Volunteers serve as Reading Coaches and are paired with either a 2nd or 3rd grader for the entire school year. Hands On Atlanta READ fosters mentoring relationships while guiding children to read well and independently by the end of the third grade. Hands On Atlanta READ was launched in Fall 1997 in 4 Atlanta elementary schools. During the school day, AmeriCorps members coordinate and supervise Reading Coaches sessions. At each site, 60 students are matched with volunteer Reading Coaches. In the afternoon, AmeriCorps members lead an exciting After School Enrichment Program for 60 students, with a specific focus on literacy.
Research: This year, we have developed a unique and effective system for tracking volunteers and evaluating student progress. In addition, we are using the following evaluation tools: the Basic Reading Inventory (developed by Jerry Johns of Northern Illinois University), the Elementary Reading Attitude Survey, results from the Iowa Test of Basic Skills, and student portfolio assessment. Hands On Atlanta READ AmeriCorps members at Slaton Elementary School administered the Basic Reading Inventory in September 1997 to 30 students (14 2nd grade students and 16 3rd grade students). These students were then matched with a volunteer Reading Coach. These 30 students were tested with the BRI again in December 1997. Overall, 87% of the students had increased at least 1 grade level in reading!
Relations: Hands On Atlanta READ has been featured on all local television newscasts, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and the television news magazine, "Campus Live!"
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