ABQ reading program aims to boost child literacy rates
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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico has often ranked low for literacy but one program is teaching kids how to read at an early age.
ABQ Reads is run by the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce. They partner with some of Albuquerque’s public schools that may have kindergarten through first-grade students who struggle with reading.
The program even allows every kindergarten through first-grade student served to receive 20 books for their at-home library.
With the help of volunteers, they work one-on-one tutoring kids, with the goal of sharpening their writing skills, in addition to their reading skills.
“We see real value having volunteers out there in the community working with these kids because we know that, as reading literacy improves, the outcomes in school improve,” said Leean Kravitz, a board member of the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce.
New Mexico has often ranked low for literacy but one program is boosting kids' opportunities to read and write at an early age.
The program relies on over 300 volunteers but they are in need of more volunteers now, especially with school starting very soon.
“We have everyone from retired military to active workers in the community to college students,” said Ashley McKinstry, a chamber of commerce member, “so to anyone who is interested, we would love to have you reading with us in the fall.”
If you would like to volunteer or learn more about the program, visit the ABQ Reads website.