We wanted to give you the inside scoop about some of our students’ stories and what they’re reading this month:
Citizenship
Most READ Center students are native speakers who need literacy assistance. We do have some English Language Learners in our classes with the goal of citizenship. Last year, Adama, a native of Senegal, became a US citizen. This year we welcome Dewin as a new US citizen! From READ Center Teacher, Carolyn Harsh: READ Center student Dewin passed her citizenship test! She will be officially sworn in as a citizen in May. Dewin emigrated to the United States from Liberia. She is very excited to become an American citizen.
Black History Month
February is a busy month at The READ Center! In recognition of Black History Month, students will be reading “Oliver White Hill, Civil Rights Attorney”. Hill was an American Civil Rights attorney from right here in Richmond, Virginia. His work against racial discrimination helped end the doctrine of “separate but equal.” The books include vocabulary charts and activities to aid in reading comprehension. READ students will each receive a copy of the book.
A group of READ Center students, tutors, and staff will attend a performance of A Raisin in the Sun at the Virginia Repertory Theater on March 8th. We’re super excited to share this classic play with students, many of whom have never attended a play or been to the theater. Thank you to READ Teacher Janet Sodell for making this happen!
President’s Day
President’s Day is Monday, February 19th. Students will learn more about George Washington as they read “George Washington: Father of Our Country.” This is another book that READ students will be able to add to their personal libraries. Thank you Altrusa Club of Richmond for providing funding for the books!
The Student Voice
The Student Voice is The READ Center’s student newsletter. It is published twice each year and includes stories, poems and artwork from READ students. The Student Voice is often the first time a READ student has seen their words published. It their chance to give their thoughts, share their dreams and tell their stories. The articles can make you laugh or bring you to tears.
From READ Center Teacher, Kay McCall: I announced the deadline for the Student Voice and asked students to think about what they wanted to write. HT immediately raised his hand said he wanted help writing about his brother who died last fall. I didn’t question him, but I am so moved by a student who struggles mightily to read and write, but longs to honor and eulogize a loved on in print – in something shared and enduring.
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Want to hear more from our students? The latest edition of The Student Voice will be published next week. Stay tuned! Visit our news page to read our last edition.
