Student performance takes flight with United Way’s SOAR

Each morning, Bre, a camp mentor at SOAR United/Camp Discovery is greeted by the excited faces of the students she works with. Bre’s students are among those whose reading scores were on the decline in 2023 but attend SOAR United in the hopes of getting their literacy development back on track.

It has been proven that academic success begins with proficient reading skills, SOAR officials said. Recognizing this, United Way of West Central Mississippi launched SOAR United in Vicksburg in order to address educational gaps and support youth development.

In 2018, third-grade reading scores in state tests significantly improved from 517 in the fall to 697 in the spring. However, in 2023, scores slightly declined to 503 in the fall and 681 in the spring. These results highlighted the need for sustained intervention.

SOAR United is a collaboration between the city, county, and Vicksburg-Warren School District. The program focuses on high-dosage tutoring, evidence-based reading interventions, and meaningful academic and social connections with trained academic guides. This initiative aims to accelerate reading achievement, particularly for children from low-income families.

The program started with just 25 students and rapidly expanded. By the end of its first year, SOAR United served 250 students across four after school programs. These students experienced an average growth of 10.7 months in reading proficiency, as measured by the STAR reading assessment. The program expanded to 550 students the following year, demonstrating an average increase of 10.5 months, according to the iReady assessment. These results underscore the effectiveness of targeted literacy interventions in improving academic outcomes.

SOAR has become a critical component of the program’s success in the Vicksburg Warren Youth Development Center. Established to combat youth gun violence, the center serves as a hub for community resources. Youth are referred to the center by various agencies, including the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Vicksburg Police Department, the VWSD and local court system. After an intake interview, participants are matched with appropriate programs and resources.

The Vicksburg Warren Youth Development Center, in partnership with United Way of West Central Mississippi and Vicksburg-Warren School District, also offers Camp Discovery, a summer enrichment camp for students who have completed sixth grade. The camp provides literacy intervention, substance abuse and bullying prevention, social skills development, mentorship, fine arts activities and field trips.

“Not only did I help the campers gain confidence in their camp goals, but I was also able to make a difference in young people’s lives,” Bre said of her experience.

This comprehensive approach to youth development demonstrates United Way’s broader commitment to health, education, and financial stability, United Way officials said. By addressing immediate academic needs and providing long-term support, United Way of West Central Mississippi is helping to build a resilient and educated community.

United Way’s efforts in Vicksburg align with its mission to mobilize communities to action so all can thrive. Programs like SOAR United and Camp Discovery enhance academic achievement and foster a supportive environment for young people, officials said, adding that through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions, United Way creates opportunities for youth to succeed.

To continue supporting initiatives like SOAR United, United Way relies on community involvement and donations. Community support can make a significant difference in the lives of students and their families, United Way officials said.

“Join us in our mission to improve education and build a stronger community. Visit United Way of West Central Mississippi to learn more about our programs and how you can make a lasting impact. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed.”