SPARK Early Literacy tutors work with K5-3rd grade struggling readers, using a set lesson plan and program materials. SPARK Tutors are responsible for tutoring assigned students three times weekly and creating individualized lesson plans, following the set program format, for all students.
The SPARK Early Literacy Program is one of the few Boys & Girls Clubs programs that operates during the school day, so SPARK tutors are expected to have daytime availability, 3 days a week, between 8:00am and 3:30pm. Tutors must commit to 12-15 hours per week, depending on their AmeriCorps commitment.
Service Activities
SPARK tutors will create individualized lesson plans for 5-6 students assigned to them. SPARK tutors will complete all reports and documentation, including bi-weekly time-sheets and family information logs for each student.
Tutors assist with the maintenance of a detailed binder for each SPARK participant in order to monitor reading progress and report on program impact. SPARK tutors also may participate in an after-school component of the program, during which they work with staff to implement creative and engaging after-school literacy games/activities for program participants. SPARK tutors may also participate in programs, projects, and other special events with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee.
Community Need Addressed
Students not performing at grade level by the end of 3rd grade are significantly more likely to have difficulty as they continue with school and their chance of dropping out increases.
The SPARK Early Literacy Program meets this need for all children to have strong literacy skills earlier in life, so that they are set for success. SPARK does this by targeting struggling readers in grades K4-3rd and helping them rise to grade-level proficiency through one-on-one instruction.
Position Outcomes
Fifty-nine corps members will provide one-on-one tutoring to students in grades K5-3rd at eleven SPARK school sites. Student participating in the SPARK Early Literacy Program will have improved literacy skills such as comprehension and phonological awareness, as well as increased reading levels. Families of SPARK students will also be more knowledgeable about literacy practices and therefore, more equipped to foster good reading habits in their children.
Benefits
Education award upon successful completion of service, Stipend, Training
Quarter-time Corps members serving with the SPARK Early Literacy Program will receive a living stipend ranging of $3,202 divided bi-weekly. Living stipend amounts vary depending on the length and commitment of the AmeriCorps term. Larger terms of service are available depending on schedule.
Skills you will gain
time management, organization and planning, multitasking, lesson-planning , leadership, education, youth development, teaching/tutoring, communications, teamwork,
Competencies You Will Develop
Communication
Demonstrate sensitivity and empathy, Maintain open lines of communication with others, Speak clearly, in precise language and in a logical, organized and coherent manner
Creativity & Problem Solving
Improvise
Teamwork
Develop constructive working relationships and maintain them over time, Interact professionally and respectfully with supervisors and co-workers, Stay positive and outcome oriented
Decisions
Quickly respond with a back-up plan if a decision goes amiss
Planning
Able to prioritize various competing tasks
Service
Understand the importance of one's role in the functioning of the organization