The Southwest Voice

By: Steve Talbot

How would you like to make an impact on the lives of second-grade students who are experiencing reading difficulties?  You can do so by volunteering to tutor four students for one hour each week during the fall 2007 semester of the Community Reading Project.

Sponsored by the Kern County Superintendent of Schools and The Bakersfield Californian, the Community Reading Project trains and places volunteers in teams of five so students receive assistance every day of the school week.

Community Reading Project does produce results. During 2006-07, student reading skills measured at the end of each semester of tutoring averaged about one and a half grade levels of growth.

Volunteer training for the fall semester is required and involves only two hours. Those interested can choose between any of three training sessions on Aug. 18 from 9 to 11 a.m.; Aug. 21 from 6 to 8 p.m.; or Aug. 22 from 3 to 5 p.m., at University Square, 2000 K St. No pre-registration is necessary.

For more information, call Teresa Twisselman at 636-4645.