Children do not simply outgrow a slow start in reading:  74% of students who are poor readers in the third grade continue to be poor readers in the ninth grade and beyond.  Tutors provide high quality, phonics-based instruction in reading skills and reading comprehension to boost their students’ reading abilities and break this devastating trend.  Tutors also develop important supportive relationships with their students, building familiarity and trust within a community made up of the Newlin Elementary School teachers and staff, and the Newlin Literacy Project Tutors.

Each Tutor meets one-on-one, twice weekly at Newlin Elementary School, with a first grader who has been selected to receive support in learning to read.  Before they begin their tutoring, Tutors receive professional training in the Science of Reading and how to implement its proven methods, in a training session in early September.  New Tutors are mentored by experienced Tutors, and all Tutors continue to learn and expand their skills in monthly Lunch and Learn gatherings.  

Anyone can become a Tutor—we invite you to join the Newlin Literacy Project community and change a child’s life!

"The tutor believed in my child's potential. Inspired by the tutor, my child began to believe in herself. She began to excel." (Parent)

"If I can help any child love reading and become more proficient, I will feel I have improved that child's life and chance for success." (Tutor)

“It is a privilege to serve as a literacy tutor and gratifying to see how much the school values and supports our program, making us partners in this critical endeavor.” (Tutor)

“What fascinated me this year was how my relationship with my student evolved. Once our bond was finally made and she became more trusting and confident, she really began to make progress. I have found no other work that fills me with such joy.” (Tutor)

“The most deeply moving, challenging & wonderful experience I have had in years!” (Tutor)

"I have never worked with such an extraordinary group of people as the Newlin tutors.  Every single one of them is dedicated to improving the lives of their students through teaching them to read." (Tutor)

“I liked reading the book and I got better on my sounds. Handwriting was hard.” (Student)

“My favorite part is getting to read more.” (Student)

“I like that I’m learning to read.” (Student)

“All of my students in the program love going with their tutors. I have seen great improvement in reading skills.” (Teacher)

“It helps with extra assistance with my students that still need basic literacy skills. My students enjoy seeing their tutor and spending time with them. Other students want a chance to work with them.” (Teacher)

“I love my tutors. They are wonderful.” (Teacher)