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APS, in partnership with community volunteers, is proud to announce the launch of Readers Rise: Empowering Young Minds Through Reading — an initiative designed to foster a love of reading, strengthen literacy skills, and build lasting mentorship connections for students.
The Readers Rise program pairs trained community volunteers with elementary students in grades K–2 at Barrett, Hoffman-Boston and Long Branch elementary schools for one-on-one reading sessions. Volunteers commit just one hour per week, creating consistent, meaningful opportunities for students to practice reading and build confidence. This pilot program is part of a broader effort by APS to expand volunteers and partnerships to support student literacy and other academic and social-emotional needs. These schools were selected based on their diversity of needs and APS will evaluate the results mid-year and review opportunities to expand to additional schools.
“Reading is the foundation of lifelong learning,” said Dr. Francisco Durán, Superintendent of Arlington Public Schools. “With Readers Rise, we are connecting students with caring adults who can spark curiosity, encourage persistence, and show that reading is both powerful and fun.”
In addition to literacy support, Readers Rise strengthens community engagement by encouraging volunteers from diverse backgrounds to serve as role models. By the end of the school year, participating students will have logged dozens of hours of extra reading practice — and, more importantly, built relationships that encourage them to see themselves as readers.
“Even one hour a week can make a lasting difference in a child’s life,” added Dr. Gerald Mann, Chief Academic Officer. “When students rise as readers, they rise as learners, leaders, and future innovators.”
Readers Rise will begin in mid-October and conclude in May. We have had an overwhelming response from interested volunteers for this program. Visit the Volunteers & Partners page for other volunteer opportunities.
