Empowering Teen Tutors, Closing the Literacy Gap
"Reading ability is the greatest predictor of future success." - Dana Goldstein
According to the latest report from the Texas Education Agency, there is a significant reading achievement gap in Austin ISD:
The reading achievement gap based on economic status:
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31% of Economically Disadvantaged students are reading on grade level.
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82% of Non-Economically Disadvantaged Students are reading on grade level
Impact Highlights:
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Word Recognition Ability: 10% growth*
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Oral Reading Accuracy: 3.4% growth*
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Reading Speed (Fluency): +24 Words Per Minute*
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Comprehension: 12% growth*
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Over 500 customized one-on-one tutoring sessions in 2025
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*Data reflects each student’s growth on their target reading level — the level most appropriate for their current skills — measured from the pre-assessment to the post-assessment after 12 weeks.
Our Model
Literacy changes a child’s future. We build it through three things that work every time.
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Customized Instruction: Every child gets lessons matched to their exact reading and writing level, with targeted practice that closes gaps.
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Interest Matched Books: We choose books that fit each child’s interests and ability so reading feels doable, enjoyable, and worth returning to.
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Mentorship: We train teens in the Joy Corps to tutor younger students one on one, building skills, confidence, and purpose for both.
How It Works:
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Assessment: We identify strengths and the specific skills holding a child back in reading, writing, and spelling.
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Plan: We build a clear plan with lessons and books matched to the child’s needs and interests.
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Progress: Monitor growth every session; adjust instruction to ensure maximum impact.
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Evaluate: Re-assess reading skills and gather feedback from the parent, tutor, and student to measure success and guide next steps.