Fall 2024 Volunteer Training: Science of Reading

In September 2024, SitStayRead offered volunteers a special evening session with nationally recognized early emerging reader expert and Chicagoan, Beth Gaskill.

A person stands and speaks to a large group of people seated at tables in a modern, well-lit conference room.

On Monday, September 16, 2024, SitStayRead is pleased to offer its volunteer Book Buddies and Dog Teams, an special evening session with nationally recognized early emerging reader expert and Chicagoan, Beth Gaskill. Join the SitStayRead staff to learn more about evidence-based approaches we are incorporating into our revised literacy enrichment curricula for kindergarten-second grade.

Current and prospective volunteers, board members and other supporters of our work are welcome to attend. Refreshments will be provided before the event as we know some of you will be coming from work. The event is free but registration is required and active volunteers will be prioritized.

Date

Monday, September 16, 2024, 5:30-7:30 pm

Location

Merlo Branch, Chicago Public Library

644 West Belmont Avenue

Chicago, IL, 60657

MAP

Street parking is available. There is a drop off zone in front of the library. Wheelchair accessible entrance, family restroom, water fountain and elevator. The Belmont Red Line stop is nearby. Dogs are not welcome at this event.

Agenda

  • 5:30-6 pm Refreshments
  • 6-7 pm Science of Reading with Beth Gaskill of Big City Readers
  • 7-7:30 pm SitStayRead Staff offer support on SitStayRead’s new Bloomerang Volunteer mobile app and answer questions for prospective Book Buddies, Dog Teams and program partners

Trained in the Orton Gillingham approach to the science of reading, and a multi sensory literacy instructor, former early childhood and elementary school teacher, Beth Gillingham is the founder of Big City Readers. Beth helps adults better understand how to effectively teach reading in ways that each child is uniquely wired to learn. Follow Beth on Instagram: @bigcityreaders

Read More Updates from SitStayRead

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An adult and a young girl sit on the floor in a library, reading a picture book to a dog wearing a blue ribbon. Bookshelves and children's books are visible in the background.
The summer program staff dug into learning about the Science of Reading, an approach to teaching reading based on decades of research and evidence.
A person with medium skin tone and curly dark hair smiles at the camera against a teal background. They are wearing a yellow top and small hoop earrings.
SitStayRead welcomed another new member to the team, Brianna “Bri” McLean, who is co-creating with us as the new part time role of Community Liaison.

Help Chicago Students Become Confident Readers

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