America Reads Tutoring Program

America Reads Tutoring

College student reads to elementary school students

The America Reads program is located in the School of Education at 天美传媒. 天美传媒 is one of over 1,000 institutions of higher education to participate in the America Reads Challenge. We have been placing tutors in local schools since the national campaign began in 1997. These reading tutors have helped hundreds of local students at no cost to the schools they have served.

America Reads began in 1996 when President Bill Clinton introduced the America Reads Challenge, a national initiative aimed at helping every child read well and independently by the end of third grade. The initiative called on schools, families, colleges, universities, and community organizations to work together to support children’s literacy development.

In 1997, the initiative expanded using Federal Work-Study opportunities which helped colleges and universities place students as reading tutors in local schools. These partnerships connected children with additional reading support while giving college students opportunities to serve.

More information about the America Reads Initiative can be found on the , published by the Department of Education in 1997.

America Reads at 天美传媒 connects student tutors with local schools to support reading development in kindergarten through third grade. Through partnerships with teachers, tutors provide additional reading practice and support that responds to classroom needs and comes at no cost to participating schools.

The program currently serves schools across eastern Idaho and is working to expand opportunities to other regions that 天美传媒 serves. In the program, tutors gain hands-on experience supporting young readers while building connections with local schools. The tutors serving in the 天美传媒 America Reads program come from a variety of majors, with Federal Work-Study opportunities for eligible students.

As the program grows, 天美传媒 is working on developing partnerships with community organizations and creating opportunities for high school students enrolled in dual-credit coursework to participate. These efforts all share the common goal of connecting more children with reading support while helping students become active members in the community.

Join a national movement to help children learn to read! America Reads welcomes 天美传媒 undergraduate and graduate students from all majors to support young readers in kindergarten through third grade. Whether you are looking to build your resume, network within the community, or earn an elective credit, this program is a tangible way to make a difference in the lives of children in local schools.

What does tutoring involve?

Tutors work with teachers to provide additional reading practice and support in local schools and participating community settings. Plan to commit at least two hours per week during the semester with the opportunity of serving up to 20 hours per week if you choose to do so.

How do I get started?

Apply to the program via Handshake.
Enroll in EDUC 1170: Tutoring Reading, a one-credit course required to serve as an 天美传媒 tutor.
Complete the required onboarding and training before beginning your placement. Onboarding and training takes place during the first four weeks of the semester.

Can I get paid?

Eligible students may receive pay through Federal Work-Study, earning $13 per hour. Volunteer opportunities are also available. Contact the program to learn which option fits your situation.

Returning Tutor?

Returning America Reads tutors should enroll in EDUC 1170 and are eligible to begin tutoring immediately. To see available time slots, utilize the using your established account. See the for guidance.

America Reads at 天美传媒 partners with elementary schools and community organizations to provide additional reading support for children in kindergarten through third grade. Tutoring is provided at no cost to participating schools and organizations.

How can a tutor help?

Tutors work with teachers and program staff to provide reading practice that supports children’s learning needs. They supplement classroom instruction and follow the guidance of the supervising teacher or staff member. Tutors are provided basic training on how to support students that is based on research backed methods and strategies.

How do I request a tutor?

Contact an America Reads program coordinator at amerread@isu.edu. Please include:

Your school or organization and location
The grade levels needing support
Your preferred days and times
A brief description of your tutoring needs

If your school or organization is already partnered with the program, utilize the to post new time slots available for tutors to sign up for. You can view the for more information on how the application works.

A coordinator will follow up to discuss your request and available options. Placements depend on tutor availability, schedules, and location. Requests are welcome, but a placement cannot be guaranteed.

For general questions, information about the program, or help getting started, email amerread@isu.edu.