This program primarily serves Somali students residing at Liberty Plaza, a low-income housing community in the Twin Cities. In this program, community elders, college students, and other community volunteers follow the same structured reading tutoring session that is utilized in our in-person school program. This evidence-based program incorporates rigorous and structured foundational literacy lessons, in which the literacy tutor guides the child through a lesson plan focused on reading practice, developing comprehension skills, and a reflection time for the child to assess their own progress. Active learning, literacy games, and a read-aloud, with emphasis on student choice, are also included in each tutoring session. Social-emotional coaching, confidence-building activities, and communication practice help children express their needs, ideas, and desires while developing resiliency. Tutors use strengths-based approaches that incorporate a deep respect for each child as a person, and for the child’s family, culture, and language. This virtual tutoring program can be expanded to serve any community in any location.
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