Wednesday, May 22, 2013
One to One, a volunteer student mentoring program, made a difference in the lives of Florence Elementary students.
Starting at the beginning of the school year until the end of April, 12 local volunteers worked individually with student’s one on one to develop literacy skills. These coaches had to complete a six hour comprehensive training class to provide them with strategies and activities to promote and enrich primary reading skills. The literacy coaches are successful adults from the community that bring all types of occupational backgrounds (both business men and women). They represent various role models needed for the students, all impacting a young life.
Once a week, the coaches’ took time from their busy day to make a meaningful connection by being the student’s cheerleader, mentor, tutor, and motivator. The students felt very comfortable and special because the coaches’ inspired them with their weekly commitment. The coaches worked in collaboration with the child’s teacher to address each student’s specific needs.
The school has seen great success in the students reading scores and self confidence. Self confidence is so important, giving the students a positive image of themselves. Community leaders need to be readers and the one to one coaches are helping Florence Elementary students reach that goal.