Experience Corps engages people over age 50 in boosting literacy and academic performance of children in urban schools and after-school programs.  More than 2,000 Corps members in 20 cities nationally, serve as tutors and mentors that help teach children to read and develop the confidence and skills they need to succeed in school and in life.
 

Here in Minnesota, Experience Corps is sponsored by Volunteers of America and Experience Corps tutors work with children in kindergarten through third grade in several Minneapolis and St. Paul schools.  Experience Corps members work under the direction of the classroom teacher, providing assistance to students one-on-one, or in small groups.  On-going training and support is provided to Experience Corps members, as well as stipends for those who qualify.
 

The Experience Corps program helps schools and youth-serving organizations become more successful, strengthens ties between these institutions and surrounding neighborhoods, and enhances the well-being of the Experience Corps members in the process. 

Call 612-617-7807 for more information about Experience Corps.

Literacy:

Despite persistent efforts, nearly 40 percent of all American fourth-graders read below the basic level on a national reading test.  The percentages are even higher in many urban schools.  Studies have shown that reading ability in the third grade is a major predictor of future educational success.  Those who are not reading by the end of third grade are far more likely to eventually drop out of school. 

Contact us today at 612-617-7807 to learn how you can impact student success through Experience Corps.

Minneapolis and St. Paul Schools:

Minneapolis:

• Andersen School
• Lucy Craft Laney School
• Marcy Open School
• Stonebridge Community School
• Whittier International School

St. Paul:

• Frost Lake School
• Higher Ground Academy (charter)
• Maxfield School
• Roosevelt School

Training:

Training is provided for Experience Corps members prior to starting service at a school site.  Initial training on tutoring beginning readers is provided by the Minnesota Literacy Council.  Additional pre- and in-service training covers a variety of topics related to supporting children in schools, including such topics as Behavior Management During Tutoring Sessions, Communicating with Teachers, Understanding School Culture, Learning Disabilities, and Cultural Awareness.

Stipend:

Experience Corps members who serve 15 hours per week are eligible to be enrolled as AmeriCorps members and receive a small stipend and an educational award on completion of 450 hours of service.