Over the 2013-14 school year, we completed and published the results of our first randomized control trial study that proved our program works for kids. The results of our study, released by research firm MDRC, showed that Reading Partners uses an effective model and curriculum for literacy intervention. This gold-standard study provides us the evidence-based research we need to underscore that given the right supports, volunteers can make a meaningful difference in education.
As we continue on our mission to empower kids to become strong confident readers, we are proud to offer effective programs that have been proven to work. Central to our model are our volunteers and AmeriCorps members, who are committed to helping serve our students and their communities.
Countdown of the top 5 Reading Partners highlights from the 2013-14 school year.
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Our volunteer reading partners gave 247,500 hours of donated time.
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Students, on average, more than doubled their rate of learning reading skills.
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Our first major research study, released by MDRC, confirmed that our program has a significant impact on students’ reading skills.
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We made two trips to the White House. First, to celebrate AmeriCorps 20th anniversary, and second, to the first-ever What Works Showcase, hosted by the Corporation for National and Community Service and the Social Innovation Fund.
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We had our first feature in The New York Times – followed by two more:
