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AARP third‑grade tutoring program expands in Pinal County; Casa Grande remains largest local site
Summary
AARP volunteers presented program results to the council: the reading‑tutoring program now operates across nine Pinal County districts, tutors nearly 300 students this school year, and reports strong reading gains among participants.
Representatives of the AARP third‑grade reading program told the City Council that the program has expanded across Pinal County and continues to be centered in Casa Grande schools.
Jerry (AARP volunteer) told the council the program pairs trained volunteers aged 45 and older with third graders for one‑on‑one tutoring. He said the program is now operating in nine school districts in Pinal County and that the Casa Grande Elementary School District accounts for more than one quarter of participating students and one third of participating schools.
The presentation included recent program metrics: 95 tutors are currently matched with 297 students (staff goal: 100 tutors to serve 300 students). Jerry said 83% of last year’s students moved up at least one grade level in reading and 38% moved up two or more grade levels. He said the program has served almost 700 students over the prior four years and is now in its fifth year of local operation.
Jerry requested two items from the council: continued funding for the program and referrals to potential volunteer tutors (the program also supports online tutoring and can recruit nationally). Steven (staff member) was identified as the city contact for interested volunteers and partner coordination.
Why it matters: Officials said improving third‑grade reading skills is linked to long‑term educational outcomes and workforce readiness in the city’s growing economy. The council thanked the volunteers and staff for expanding the program countywide.
No formal vote or budget change was made at the study session; staff said the program will be included in upcoming budget materials.
