ONE TO ONE is a children’s literacy program which was developed in 1989 by reading experts with the Vancouver School Board and a group of dedicated volunteers.  The program expanded rapidly and has been welcomed by many communities throughout British Columbia and Alberta.

THE CHILDREN are in grades one to six and struggling in one or more aspects of their reading.  They are not receiving other specialized reading help from School District staff. Each child receives one-on-one tutoring for 30 minutes, three to four times per week for about 12 weeks. Trained volunteer tutors provide a supportive environment, helping to improve reading fluency and comprehension.

THE VOLUNTEER TUTOR must be at least 16 years old, have good reading and English or French language skills and a desire to make a difference. The School Board Office requires all volunteers to consent to a Police Information Check.

THE COMMITMENT is one and a half hours, one morning or afternoon per week from mid-October to mid-May. All tutoring is done during school hours, under the supervision of the teaching staff.  Substitutes are available to fill in when tutors are ill or on vacation.

TRAINING in a variety of reading strategies is mandatory prior to the start of tutoring. Training is 3 hours long and is offered the fall and the spring.

For more information, or to volunteer, email literacymerritt@gmail.com.