The Reading Buddies program is a joint community initiative by the Bristol Tennessee City School System and Bristol Virginia Public Schools. It relies on volunteers who are willing to read to kindergarteners, first, and second graders for just 30 minutes a week. BRHA employees took part in their first reading sessions on September 29th, and everyone looks forward to continuing to build a relationship with their buddy!
Volunteers are partnered with a student/buddy and meet with their buddy on a weekly basis for just 30 minutes at a time. Volunteers are welcome to sign-up as a Reading Buddy for more than one student.
They monitor and assist by reading to the student, listening to the student read, encouraging the student, and attending the student’s school activities when possible.
As much as supporting critical reading skills, volunteers help their buddies by establishing a positive relationship with them.
