Is there preparation involved for each student session?
No preparation is required, although you are free to bring props that might interest a student in reading.
Who provides the books to be read?
The teachers provide the books. If a listener wants to suggest a book, the teacher can weigh in on whether it is appropriate for the student's abilities.
What age/grade child will I work with?
The Lucky Listeners program is focused on second graders currently. These students would typically be about eight years old.
Will I see the same child each time I come?
Some Listeners listen to just one child, while others, at the request of the teacher, may rotate through several students in the class. The teacher whose student(s) you listen to will let you know.
What are my responsibilities other than listening to students read?
You will pick your student up from their classroom on time and have them back in their classroom at the appointed time. You will also keep a simple log of the numbers of times you visited the school to listen (the log will be provided), and turn it in monthly.
What if my student has a lot of trouble reading? What do I do?
Our goal is to encourage our students and enable them to experience a sense of success. We will offer training in simple supporting techniques in our orientation.
How is my schedule set?
The staff and Newlin literacy coach select the time slot, usually 30 minutes, based on their daily instructional schedule.
How often do I have to come?
You may choose how many days a week you come to the school to be a Lucky Listener, from one day to all five! It is completely up to you.
I have a trip planned in a couple of months. Is this a deal breaker?
No. It is important to “show up” consistently, but Tutors and Listeners sometimes have to be away for personal reasons during the year. If you let the teachers and students know ahead of time, being away is not a problem.
What is required to participate?
You need to fill out interest forms which we will provide, attend an orientation meeting, complete the require ABSS background check (no cost to you), and complete online training for working safely with young children.