Reading volunteers needed to help students read at grade level in Polk County

More than half of Polk County students are not reading at grade level. The United Way of Central Florida is working to improve child literacy, but they need your help.

There’s something special about seeing a child who once struggled to read become a strong reader. Some might even call it magical.

“I had kids that were non-readers; didn’t know any sight words. By the end of the year, they are reading. They are reading full sentences. It's kind of like magic," said Gretchen Ceranic. "In a short period of time, you get to see a little child that blossoms into a really excited, proud reader.”

As a Reading Pal, Ceranic volunteers one hour every week to read with a child, helping them develop literacy skills and foster a love for reading.

“Like most things, when you volunteer you get more out of it, than you give. I love kids and love seeing them grow, so this was an easy way to give back,” Ceranic said.

State data shows that 57% of Polk County third graders fail to read at or above grade level. ReadingPals is an early literacy initiative by United Way of Central Florida that aims to increase the number of students reading at the appropriate level.

“If a child is not reading at proficiency level by the time they hit third grade, they are four times more likely to not finish high school,” said Ruthie Teets, ReadingPals Program Manager.

Teets said the United Way is in urgent need of 252 ReadingPals. Volunteers read with kindergarten students once a week, using a curriculum designed by Polk County Schools. The program helps students improve reading proficiency by improving vocabulary, listening skills and comprehension.

“I really want to make sure all the children are having the opportunity to be as literate and do as well with their lives as they possibly can,” said Teets.

Volunteers receive training and will be paired with kindergarten children across 15 Polk County schools. You can apply to become a ReadingPals volunteer here.

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