Why do students of all ages differ so greatly in school performance?  There are a plethora of reasons for this phenomenon, but one of the largest reasons is the achievement gap.  The achievement gap begins even before children enter the public education system, leaving students who have less experience and support, far behind as their peers accelerate.  When left untreated, this gap steadily widens as the students continue on in their education.  However, society doesn’t need to sit back and let this cycle happen; we can make a difference.

The way I decided to make a difference was by joining Minnesota Reading Corps.  After graduating from Winona State University with my Elementary Education degree and substitute teaching, I had gained a lot of experience in elementary school classrooms.  I had witnessed the achievement gap first hand and was ready to do something about it.  While I originally thought this would be in the form of a classroom teacher, I discovered Minnesota Reading Corps.  I decided to spend a year serving as a literacy tutor right here in Winona, making a difference in the lives of the students of Jefferson Elementary School.

Minnesota Reading Corps and Minnesota Math Corps are AmeriCorps* state programs that provide targeted tutoring using research based interventions and strategies.  Minnesota Reading Corps tutors work with students in preschool through grade three to improve their reading skills. Minnesota Math Corps tutors work with students in fourth through eighth grade who are struggling with math.

Reading Corps members work as one-on-one or small group tutors to students who are below reading proficiency or at risk of falling behind. Math Corps curriculum focuses on what each individual student needs to improve and on building confidence in the student that he or she can learn and succeed with math.  Reading and Math Corps members receive ongoing training through their year of service.

Reading Corps and Math Corps positions are not permanent jobs; they’re a temporary service.  Members make an 11-month commitment during which they receive a modest living allowance and education award. Full-time members may also receive health insurance.

My experience as a literacy tutor with Minnesota Reading Corps has been amazing and has even inspired me to pursue a Masters degree in reading.  I have witnessed many students make huge gains in their reading, simply because they had the one-on-one support they needed.  It’s exciting to see them performing right alongside their peers—realizing I’ve helped bridge the achievement gap for these children.  Would you find joy in making a difference? Your decision could make the difference for students across Minnesota.

*Alison Ballweg is a recent Winona State University graduate pursuing her master degree in reading.