MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES
Early literacy skills are essential in helping children transition from learning to read to reading to learn, by third grade, a milestone that often indicates future learning outcomes. SitStayRead annually provides over 1,400 Chicago kindergarten - second grade students focused time and added opportunities to acquire and practice foundational reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills alongside canine companions whose quite, nonjudgmental presence boosts joy, confidence, and motivation.
OUR MISSION
SitStayRead advances children's literacy and builds confidence in young readers by using an engaging curriculum incorporating social-emotional learning, enriched by certified reading assistance dogs.
OUR VISION
SitStayRead envisions a world where every child, regardless of race or economic status, has access to the resources and opportunities they need to develop strong literacy skills, build meaningful connections with animals, and thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
OUR CORE VALUES
SitStayReads is guided by “community agreements” as we serve children through formative literacy experiences. These values include being community-centric, curious, transparent, solutions-focused, and creative.
OUR COMMITMENT
At SitStayRead, we understand that literacy and learning are enriched through diverse voices, experiences, and perspectives. Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is at the heart of our mission to support all children’s literacy in all of its forms; including reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking.
We actively strive to create an environment where everyone—students, volunteers, staff, and community partners—feels valued, respected and heard. We recognize the importance of representation and inclusivity in all aspects of our work in and out of the classroom. We also understand that systemic barriers and power imbalances can affect literacy and learning outcomes. We are committed to challenging these barriers and ensuring our decision-making processes are inclusive and equitable. This relates to our decisions being data-driven and reflective of the systems we use to track and monitor our key performance indicators in all facets of the organization.
By fostering a culture of equity and inclusivity, we empower children to see themselves in the stories they read and write, encouraging them to embrace their own unique potential. SitStayRead is committed to continual learning and growth in our DEI efforts, ensuring that all of our programs, budgetary decisions, and resource allocation efforts reflect the diverse world we live in and contribute to a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.