 This month we have the privilege of highlighting Devin Johnson, an amazing individual who plays a vital role in The YMCA’s Achievers Program.
Devin’s dedication to working with students in the Lincoln Park/Uptown neighborhoods is truly inspiring. He serves as the site director for the Achievers Program at Lincoln Middle School, an after-school program where students, identified by their teachers and recommended, commit to attending daily sessions for approximately 2 ½ hours. Here, they receive math and literacy instruction that not only reinforces classroom learning but also applies it to real-life situations. Every day, Devin takes joy in making a positive impact on young minds, helping them prepare for a brighter future. Devin has been an avid supporter of our Lincoln Park/Uptown Collaborative Community Network (CCN) gatherings. His vibrant energy and innovative ideas infuse our monthly meetings with positivity. Devin consistently seeks opportunities to align his program with other community organizations, exposing his students to invaluable experiences they might not otherwise access. His insatiable curiosity and valuable contributions enrich our collaborative efforts. The YMCA has been a trusted partner, both for our community and Building Our Future, and we look forward to continuing our work together. Thank you, Devin Johnson, for your dedication and hard work. Your impact is truly appreciated!  In Kenosha County, the alarming reality is that two of three third graders struggle with reading proficiency. But here’s the good news: You have the power to help reverse this crisis.
By dedicating just one hour per week, you can help students become more confident and capable readers. Readers Are Leaders tutors spend time with students practicing literacy skills through reading, writing, and other phonics activities. As United Way of Kenosha County enters their eighth program year, in partnership with the Kenosha Unified School District, RAL is on a mission to enlist over 100 tutors to work with students across four schools: Brass, Forest Park, McKinley, and EBSOLA. Last year, students and tutors came together to read for approximately 800 hours, and we aspire to exceed these numbers for the 2023-2024 school year—with your support. No matter your background or experience, our students can benefit greatly from your presence. Our tutors come from diverse backgrounds, including college students and retirees. Rest assured, all the training and resources you need for success will be provided. Tutoring takes place during school hours, September/October through May. Volunteer recruitment will take place through mid-October. Complete the tutor interest form to get involved: https://www.kenoshaunitedway.org/readers-are-leaders-tutoring-program or for more information, email mmarkowski@kenoshaunitedway.org.  Did you know that third-grade reading proficiency is a crucial predictor of high school graduation and career success? It's the foundation upon which our children's future success is built. 🌟
During the early grades, children are learning the fundamental skills of reading. But it's after third grade that they start using these skills to comprehend more complex materials. 📖 The disparities in literacy that persist by third grade can have long-lasting consequences. That's why it's essential to ensure that our kids are proficient readers early on. 🚀 Our partnership is committed to making a difference in our community. We've worked hard to bring valuable resources like the Wisconsin Reading Corp to our district. 📚 We're proud to partner with United Way of Kenosha County to support the Readers Are Leaders program. We’re thrilled to be a thought partner with the Kenosha Public Library as they open the first Children’s Library. Together, we're aligning various activities to give our students the best possible support in literacy. 🤝 In 2022, we faced a significant challenge in Kenosha County. Only 31% of our third-grade students, which equates to 533 out of 1720 students, tested proficient or advanced in English Language Arts on the Wisconsin Forward Assessment. 📊 While this highlights the work that still needs to be done, it also reinforces the importance of our ongoing commitment to literacy and education in our community. We know that with continued efforts and partnerships, we can improve these numbers and provide a brighter future for all our students. 📚💪 Let's work together to raise these proficiency levels and ensure that every child in Kenosha County has the opportunity to succeed academically and in life. 🌟 #NationalLiteracyMonth #BuildingOurFuture #ReadingMatters #LiteracyForAll #Kenosha |
