United Way of Central Indiana is seeking volunteers to read with elementary school students this year.
The nonprofit’s ReadUP program places volunteers with third grade students at a pivotal time in students’ education — the year educators say students shift from learning to read to reading to learn.
The ReadUP program partners with schools in Marion County, as well as Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Morgan and Putnam counties.
Volunteers are asked to spend one hour per week reading to two students. Some volunteers split the time commitment with a partner, United Way officials said.
The program will begin after Labor Day. United Way is seeking 350 volunteers to participate.
Last year, 263 volunteers worked with 276 students at 20 schools in six counties.
United Way officials say the program, which has run for more than 16 years, has shown signs of success. Last year, 92% of participating students saw increases in their reading skills.
The program comes as educators this year adapt to a new state law requiring schools to hold back students who do not pass Indiana’s third grade reading exam.
ReadUP volunteers must pass a background check and complete a one-hour virtual training session to participate. Registration is available online at uwci.org/readup.
Mirror Indy reporter Carley Lanich covers early childhood and K-12 education. Contact her at carley.lanich@mirrorindy.org or follow her on X @carleylanich.
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