Read Aloud Volunteer Classroom Reader

Words Alive’s Read Aloud Program operates on the knowledge that reading aloud to young children is the most important thing we can do to help them become motivated, strong readers. Every month the Read Aloud Program serves approximately 2,000 preschool and elementary school students attending Title I (low-income) elementary schools. Many students we serve live in communities with limited educational resources. 

Read Aloud Volunteer Classroom Readers work to build healthy reading habits, encourage reading comprehension, boost phonological awareness, and provide opportunities for self-expression and world exploration. We explore new and diverse texts using five anchors (read, talk, sing, play, and connect) to foster the love of reading.

Words Alive’s Read Aloud Program Manager is the primary staff contact and supervisor for Read Aloud Volunteer Classroom Readers.

Responsibilities:

  • Supports the Read Aloud Program by providing weekly in-person interactive shared reading experiences in elementary school classrooms.

  • Inspire a commitment to reading to aid in the development of children’s cognitive, language, and social-emotional skills necessary for life success.

  • Make reading fun, enjoyable, and playful for the same class(es) of elementary students throughout the school year.

  • This role encourages a love of reading for the entire class and does not involve tutoring.

A great Read Aloud Volunteer Classroom Reader is:

  • A lover of books and reading.

  • Comfortable around children.

  • Culturally competent.

  • Reliable and consistent.

  • Positive and affirming while maintaining professionalism.

  • Interested in bringing equity to and working with diverse communities and fostering an inclusive environment for program participants.

Commitment:

  • 30-week service period, generally aligned with the traditional school year.

  • Read in-person at the assigned school site.

    • Be willing to be at any site, throughout San Diego County, where there is a need.

    • Ideally reads to 2 or more classes per week.

  • Spend 30 minutes per classroom reading and providing fun, educational activities.

    • 15 min preparation for sessions.

Requirements:

  • Must be 18 years or older.

  • Must have access to a reliable form of transportation to/from school sites.

  • Must have access to and be comfortable with basic computer technology, including emails and virtual conferencing.

  • Provide proof of COVID vaccination and complete COVID waiver.

  • Submit a negative TB test from within the past four years.

Onboarding and Training:  

  • Attend a 30-minute volunteer orientation and submit a volunteer application.

  • Review and sign volunteer handbook.

  • Complete a fingerprint background check.

  • Complete a 2-hour online training about preventing, identifying, and reporting child abuse and neglect.

  • Complete a 1.5-hour training on program fundamentals and using strengths-based, empowering language.

  • Attend a 1-hour training specific to the Read Aloud Program.