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Forward Scholars describes expansion of volunteer early-literacy tutoring in nine MPS schools
Summary
Forward Scholars told the committee its volunteer tutoring program now serves nine partner schools with over 300 weekly volunteers and reported statistically significant gains in reading accuracy and fluency from earlier cohorts; the presentation was informational only.
Forward Scholars presented an overview of its volunteer tutoring model to the Committee on Student Achievement and School Innovation, outlining staffing, program design and growth plans.
Executive Director Carrie (as introduced) and Melody Ratney, reading and instructional coach, described a Book Buddies framework grounded in research and individualized lesson plans. The nonprofit said it serves nine partner schools this year with site staffing that includes bilingual coordinators and one-to-one community volunteer tutors. "Every one of our students at every single site has their very own community volunteer, and that volunteer is trained at the beginning of the year," Ratney said.
The organization reported growth from about 170 community volunteers three years ago to more than 300 volunteers coming into MPS schools weekly. Forward Scholars said independent analysis of their early cohorts showed nearly two years of growth in reading accuracy and fluency across the first multi-year span; a midyear assessment window was upcoming and expected to provide updated, concrete data.
Board members praised the program and asked about how partner schools are selected, including questions about non-instrumentality charter schools contracting for tutoring. Forward Scholars said school selection is coordinated with district leadership, data review, and principal interest. The item was informational and no formal action was taken.
