The Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County has deepened its partnership with the county school district to address reading challenges faced by elementary students. Under the Building Better Readers initiative, the coalition recruits local volunteers to serve as tutors, offering personalized support that complements classroom instruction.
Program roots and goals
Founded several years ago, the coalition’s tutoring effort was created to close the gap for students who struggle with foundational literacy. Kristin Calder, chief executive officer of the Literacy Coalition, explained that strong reading skills are critical not only for academic success but also for building confidence and future opportunities.
How volunteers get involved
Community members interested in becoming tutors can apply through the coalition’s website or attend one of the regular information sessions held at the district’s central office. Once approved, volunteers receive a brief orientation that covers tutoring best practices, curriculum alignment, and safety protocols. “We look for people who care about families and want to make a tangible difference in a child’s life,” Calder said.
Carrie Supancic, a longtime volunteer tutor, shared her experience: “Seeing a child’s eyes light up when they finally decode a word is priceless. It’s a reminder that our faith and commitment to families can shape the next generation.”
Impact on students and schools
Since its launch, the program has placed tutors in over 30 schools across Palm Beach County, reaching more than 1,200 students each year. Early assessments indicate measurable gains in reading fluency and comprehension among participants. School administrators report that the additional support eases teacher workloads and helps keep students on track for grade‑level benchmarks.
Supporting families and the community
The coalition emphasizes that strong literacy at home reinforces classroom learning. Parents are encouraged to attend workshops that provide strategies for reading aloud, creating a print‑rich environment, and fostering a love of books. By engaging both volunteers and families, the initiative aligns with the community’s commitment to traditional family values and the constitutional right of parents to guide their children’s education.
How to help
Those who wish to become tutors or support the program financially can visit literacycoalition.org. Donations fund training materials, reading supplies, and transportation for volunteers traveling to schools throughout the county.
The Building Better Readers program exemplifies how local nonprofits, faith‑motivated volunteers, and public schools can work together to strengthen the next generation’s foundation, ensuring that every child in Palm Beach County has the tools to succeed.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
