Local Resources to Support Student Literacy
Literacy is important. It is the foundation of all other learning. To facilitate reading, writing, and communication skills, I have compiled a list of six resources (not all inclusive) for our military-connected students:
1. United Through Reading
This is an organization that offers literacy and of parent connection during deployment, providing free books to military families. Their website provides additional information on their mission: “When duty calls, distance can make connection hard for families. We make it easier. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, United Through Reading helps service members record and share storytime videos with the children in their lives, ensuring every military child can hear a loved one’s voice—no matter where in the world they serve. Since 1989, we’ve helped millions of military families stay close through the simple, powerful act of reading together. Because even when miles apart, stories can keep hearts connected.” (unitedthroughreading.org)
2. Tutor.com
This is a free service, requiring registration for military-connected students and families: “24/7 Tutoring Anytime, Anywhere. Learners can get personalized help from an expert tutor—anytime, on any internet-connected device, from anywhere in the world. Expert Tutors in 150+ Subjects. 4,000+ rigorously vetted tutors are available in more than 150+ subjects, including bilingual Spanish offerings in math, science, social studies, writing, study skills, and parent coaching. Safe, Secure, Anonymous. Every tutoring session is anonymous and takes place in a secure online classroom. Our tutors undergo comprehensive screenings, including background checks, and are monitored for quality control.” (https://military.tutor.com/home)
3. Minot Public Library
This local resource is located at 516 Second Avenue in SW Minot. It has a “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” challenge, which is a “fun early literacy challenge for children from birth to kindergarten.” It requires reading with your child regularly to reach 1,000 books before he/she starts school. Registration is completed through an app and progress is tracked (https://www.minotlibrary.org/). In addition, the Minot Public Library has an upcoming event titled, “Fall into Reading,” which will be held on Saturday, September 26th from 1-4pm. Community members, including myself, will be present to provide hands-on literacy activities.
4. Minot AFB Library
Their Facebook page titled “Minot AFB Library” lists current and upcoming events. They regularly offer reading programs, storytimes, and fun activities/resources that help generate excitement for your young reader!
5. Literacy Tutoring
Ms. Lisa McGinnis offers one-on-one reading tutoring support for grades K-4. This is a paid service that is available to local students on Minot AFB. It is a new, available resource this school year.
6. Legendary Family Learning Guide “Building Literacy Skills” Books
These “Legendary Learners books” are available, for free, at the School Liaison Office on Minot AFB. They help support early literacy in young children ages birth to kindergarten. Chockfull of parent tips and North Dakota facts, it really is an interesting and helpful resource!
It is my hope that these six local resources may aid you and your student(s) along your literacy journey – an expedition well worth the trek!
The information in this article is provided as a resource and does not constitute endorsement by Minot AFB, the United States Air Force, or the Department of War of the external website, or the information, products, or services contained therein.
