I am a retired educator. I’ve seen the impact of students not being able to read at grade level. I’m participating in a local volunteer-based program called Read by Third designed to give parents skills and resources to help their children learn to read at grade level by third grade.
Daniel Hernandez created the program on the premise that parents with a vision of what is possible for their child is the basis that can inspire the child, the teacher and others to join in helping the child succeed.
Twenty-five families currently participate in the program at two Bryan elementary schools: Anson Jones and Ben Milam. Volunteers, such as I and Texas A&M students, guest speakers and field trips provide information and experiences to improve children’s success in reading/math, conduct and attendance. A&M professors conduct pre and post assessments to document student achievement levels, as well as parent engagement results.
Individual and business contributions fund the program. I highly encourage community members and businesses to support this grassroots effort. The BCS Chamber of Commerce is hosting a luncheon on May 28 at the College Station Hilton to highlight Read by Third. Your financial and personal involvement would be greatly appreciated. You can make a difference in the lives of children who can benefit greatly by the program.
For information about the luncheon, contact Daniel Hernandez at danielr@hdzfirm.com or the Chamber of Commerce. Be a part of a worthwhile effort to teach children to learn to read by third grade and read to learn for the rest of their lives.
MARY SUE RIBARDO
Bryan