Reading Roundup

Every school and classroom must create a culture of reading success. Reading Roundup is a classroom-focused program aimed at inspiring young minds and increasing their literacy skills. Trained, caring adult volunteers visit a designated elementary classroom at least monthly to engage them in read alouds using specially selected books and guides which build higher-order thinking skills, increase comprehension levels, and boost vocabulary.

In addition, Reading Roundup volunteers help build positive relationships with students and foster a culture of reading excitement and achievement.

Benefits

Reading aloud has many benefits, such as:

  • motivates children to read on their own

  • expands vocabulary

  • promotes critical thinking

  • provides a model for fluent, expressive reading

  • fosters a sense of community in the classroom

Expectations

Reading Roundup mentor expectations:

  • Mentors commit to reading to a classroom one time each month for the entire school year.

  • Mentors use Reading Roundup books and “Lesson Guides” to ensure program integrity.

Read alouds will last 30-45 minutes depending on the length of the book, and will take place with the teacher present in the classroom.

SADDLE UP AND VOLUNTEER TODAY!

Now more than ever reading mentors are needed to help bridge the gap and keep students on track.

Become a Reading Roundup volunteer in 3 easy steps!

1

Become Volunteers In Public Schools ("VIPS") approved.

  • All volunteers must have an approved background check through VIPS to volunteer.

  • Click below to complete the 2024-2025 VIPS Volunteer Orientation.

    Houston ISD

    Katy ISD

    Spring ISD

    Spring Branch ISD

  • Upon completion of the VIPS Volunteer Orientation, you will have access to the link for the VIPS application.

  • Use the same email address you have used or plan to use for your connect4literacy.org account.

  • Please be sure to select Reading Roundup on your application under the 5th section of the application labeled "Organizations".

  • Upon clearance you will receive an automated email from Raptor System notifying you of the change of your background check status.

2

Create a Connect4Literacy.org Account

  • You may already have a connect4literacy.org account. If not, please create an account at https://www.connect4literacy.org/volunteer-sign-up

  • Note: please make sure to use the same email as the one you provided on your VIPS application.

  • Connect4Literacy.org is where all Reading Roundup volunteer opportunities will be posted.

3

Register for volunteer opportunities on Connect4literacy.org

Reading Roundup opportunities will be posted and active on Connect4Literacy.org in early October and need the support of volunteers like you to be a success!

What people are saying…

“For the past two years, members of the Ladies for Literacy Guild have served as Reading Roundup mentors to first and second grade classrooms at our school. The students and teachers love and look forward to seeing them. They have not only helped to reinforce the importance of reading, but also sparked an enjoyment of books through the stories they share”

— Alejandro, Clemente Martinez Elementary School Principal

Reading Roundup Over the Years

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