I am delighted to share the success of the One to One Reading program, which was launched by Durango School District this past school year. We welcomed 44 dedicated volunteer reading coaches into our six elementary schools, and their impact has been remarkable.
Throughout the 2023-24 school year, the volunteers visited first through third grade students weekly, fostering a love for reading and significantly improving their reading proficiency. The relationships formed between the students and community members have been inspiring, showing the power of connection and support in the educational journey.
Thanks to our volunteers’ unwavering commitment and enthusiasm, the district schools have had a measurable increase in students' reading scores.
Based on the end-of-year 2023-24 DIBELS results, 73% of Durango School District students in kindergarten through third grade reached the At/Above benchmark. This progress is a testament in part to the One to One Reading program’s effectiveness and the dedication of our community members, who give their time and energy to support struggling readers.
We are excited to expand this wonderful program. I would like to invite more community members to join us in making a difference by becoming volunteer reading coaches.
A fall training session is scheduled for Sept. 28. No teaching experience is needed. I encourage anyone interested to participate and contribute to the success of Durango School District’s students. Email donnagulec@aol.com or info@durangoschools.org for details.
Donna Gulec
Durango
