Help middle school students become more confident readers!
Be a part of a young person’s life.
- are part of a group of volunteers that serve in the classroom together
- meet during the school day each week for 45 minutes
- work with the same group of 2-4 students each week
- receive training and materials to use with their students
- help the students develop confidence in themselves and their reading
Frequently Asked Questions:
What will I do as a Partners in Literature Classroom Coach?
How do I know if I am making a difference?
What volunteer training is offered?
What materials are provided?
How does APIE support volunteers?
At which schools can I volunteer?
How can I sign up to volunteer?
What will I do as a Partners in Literature Classroom Coach?
Classroom Coaches work with the same group of 2-4 students once a week for 45 minutes. During the session, volunteers and students read and discuss short passages, including non-fiction, fiction, plays and poetry. Volunteering occurs during the class day in the classroom throughout the year for a total of approximately 24 sessions. Teachers tell us volunteers in the classroom provide both academic and social benefits to the students.
Volunteer training and materials are provided in advance. You will work with the same students each week as much as possible to build important mentoring relationships.
The teacher is available for support throughout the class period. Every student in the class participates, so every student benefits.
Where will I work with my students?
Classroom Coaching occurs in the classroom with the teacher present. Coaches work independently with their groups. Teachers provide support on curriculum or behavior management as needed.
How do I know I am making a difference?
Teachers report that this program is very important to their students. This is a time for students to get very personal attention and learn about the world through reading and interactions with a community volunteer. Comments from teachers have included: “Some of my students have not spoken in class all year, but when they are with their volunteer, they are very engaged and conversational”. Survey responses have shown that 100% of teachers feel Partners in Literature has a positive impact on their students.
What volunteer training is offered?
Coaches learn to engage small groups of middle school students in reading to improve their comprehension and enjoyment of reading, and to expand their knowledge.
What reading materials are provided?
Volunteers receive a binder to guide them through the weekly sessions with the students. Each session includes a reading, vocabulary, and discussion topics and questions. Students also receive a binder that includes the readings.
How does APIE support volunteers?
Program Coordinators provide training, visit classrooms, and are available to answer questions and provide suggestions and tips between sessions via phone and email.
Classroom Coaches also support each other. Often, coaches meet for a few minutes before or after classes to share experiences, successes, and challenges.
At which school(s) can I volunteer?
Partners in Literature is at Webb Middle School, 601 E Saint Johns Ave Austin, TX 78752, near IH35N & E. St. Johns (also near Highland Mall).
How can I sign up to be a Partners in Literature Classroom Coach?
Click on the Volunteer Button and select Partners in Literature from the Program list. Choose the time slot that works best for you.
Program Contacts:
Reading Program Manager
sbootz@austinpartners.org
