Tempe Elementary board approves virtual literacy tutoring pilot; public commenter urges change to core reading materials

The Tempe Elementary School District governing board on Wednesday approved a professional services agreement with Azura Literacy to pilot a virtual reading-tutoring program at one school, with devices and internet hotspots provided for participating families.

The decision followed public comment from Raquel Ellis, a Broadmoor resident and former curriculum specialist, who told the board she reviewed district materials online and raised concerns that the district's Harcourt Journeys core reading program “does not meet alignment to state standards” and that the district’s reliance on the Heggerty program for phonemic awareness showed “no difference in reading outcomes” in a recent Florida Center for Reading Research study.

Board member Charlotte moved to approve the professional services agreement; Allison seconded the motion and the board voted to approve it.

Nut graf: The contract creates a small, school-based pilot of virtual literacy tutoring offered at no cost to families through a Mesa United Way–funded branch. Supporters said the pilot will expand access to reading supports; a public commenter used the meeting to press the district for a broader review of its core reading materials and phonemic-awareness strategies.

District staff described the program as a virtual tutoring model similar to earlier “step up” tutoring efforts. Ms. Grimaldi, who briefed the board, said the program will begin as a pilot at Aguilar Elementary to keep participation manageable and allow the district to scale if demand grows. “The tutors are trained through America Reads,” she said, adding that tutors undergo background checks and a set training curriculum. The district will supply devices and hotspots to families who need them.

Ellis, who identified herself as a former language-arts curriculum specialist, told the board she was “hesitant about sending her 3‑year‑old” to the district after reviewing curricular materials online. “Tempe Elementary uses the Harcourt Journeys program, which does not meet alignment to state standards,” Ellis said, and she urged the district to consider changes to improve early reading outcomes.

Board members asked clarifying questions about tutor recruitment and safeguards. Ms. Grimaldi said the program will start small with a pilot at one school and that the tutoring organization provides a structured curriculum, training and background checks; tutors in the model do not meet students one‑to‑one in person. Board member Allison noted she had volunteered in similar programs and said college students sometimes participate as volunteers or receive stipends.

The board approved the professional services agreement by voice vote. The contract is funded by a Mesa United Way branch; district staff said the program will be free to participating families and that the district will provide devices and internet hotspots.

Ending: District staff said they will monitor the pilot and report back; the board did not vote to change adopted curricular materials at this meeting. Raquel Ellis offered to work with the district as a volunteer curriculum partner and provided her contact information during public comment.