About The Literacy Project
Beth McClure
The Literacy Project
The Literacy Project is The Gathering’s ministry that pairs volunteer reading mentors with kindergarten and first grade students at schools in the St. Louis Public Schools and the Normandy Schools Collaborative.
Mentors work one-on-one with the same student every week from October through April. Using best practices in literacy instruction and child development, we help students develop early literacy skills. However, the power of this program lies not only in helping students improve their reading, but also in the authentic relationships formed between mentors and mentees.
We work to build mutually beneficial partnerships with schools and to truly become a part of the school communities. We support teachers and staff in their efforts to nurture students’ gifts and abilities and empower them to succeed.
Mentors work one-on-one with the same student every week from October through April. Using best practices in literacy instruction and child development, we help students develop early literacy skills. However, the power of this program lies not only in helping students improve their reading, but also in the authentic relationships formed between mentors and mentees.
We work to build mutually beneficial partnerships with schools and to truly become a part of the school communities. We support teachers and staff in their efforts to nurture students’ gifts and abilities and empower them to succeed.
The Literacy Project is back in person for the 2022-2023 School Year!
Volunteer Opportunities
Mentor (100+ needed!): Works one-on-one with a kindergarten or first grade student on literacy lessons and reading concepts (all materials and training provided) while building a meaningful relationship with the student. No education experience necessary!Teacher Appreciation Coordinator (3 needed): Plans monthly treats and surprises for faculty and staff at our partner schools. They do not design and create all the treats, but instead coordinate groups (Core Groups, etc.) to commit to each month.
My Own Library Coordinator (8-10 needed): Each month, we will provide a book to every student in the classes in which we have mentees. The My Own Library Coordinator works with teachers monthly in selecting books for their students, places the order with our local partners, arranges for delivery, etc.