Children and youth needing extra academic help in reading, writing and mathematics will be able to access the READ Society’s programs for the first time in Sooke this fall.
The availability of the new community services is thanks to a partnership between Edward Milne Community School Society, the Sooke Region Literacy Project, the Sooke School District and the READ Society.
“The literacy community in Sooke came together to help READ understand the needs of the community, how we could meet those needs – and to help us find a suitable space to offer services,” says Claire Rettie, READ’s executive director. “We’re thrilled to be able to finally deliver outreach programs in Sooke and remove the access barrier for families.” Until now, the closest READ location has been at the West Shore Family Resource Centre in Colwood.
Jodie McDonald, the Literacy Outreach Coordinator for the Sooke Region says she is aware of the need for READ’s services in the community. “I’ve met many parents looking for help with reading and math for their children, so I’m thrilled to be working with the READ Society to bring some options here to Sooke,” McDonald says.
The non-profit literacy organization will begin offering individualized programs by teachers at Edward Milne Community School on Tuesdays and Thursdays afterschool.
READ has provided learning and literacy programs in Greater Victoria for 35 years. As a non-profit, the organization provides fee-based services and also fundraises with the community to provide tuition assistance for children and youth who are from low income households and whose academic skills are below grade level.
Sooke households will have the opportunity to apply for the funding, which allows children and youth to access remedial learning help at a reduced rate based on a sliding scale.
Classes will be offered throughout the school year, and programs may be extended to additional days depending on community needs, Rettie says.
More information about READ’s programs and applications for tuition assistance can be found at www.readsociety.bc.ca. People can call 250-388-7225 to register.
Media contact: Claire Rettie, Executive Director – crettie@readsociety.bc.ca 250-388-7225 ext. 3