This program primarily serves Somali students residing at Liberty Plaza, a low-income housing community in St. Paul. 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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