After moving to Washington after and working for a financial company, Elle realized it was not the path they wanted. In hopes of finding more rewarding work, Elle moved back to Minnesota and began their job search. Now they’re using their personal experience to connect with Reading Corps students.
Throughout their life, Elle always enjoyed working with kids and wanted to take steps to get into education. Reading Corps turned out to be the perfect fit. They were able to get a sense of what it would be like working with kids in a school. “I realized right away that I loved it,” says Elle. “It’s super rewarding to watch kids grow and know that I’m making a difference in the community.”
Each day, Elle works with first, second and third grade students to target specific skills based on their reading levels. Now in their second year, Elle’s favorite part is getting to know each student and making connections with them. “Each student has their own talents and perspectives,” they noted. “You really do learn as much from them as they do from you!”
Being a Reading Tutor is particularly meaningful for Elle because they remember struggling with reading in elementary school. Elle says they were lucky enough to have a teacher that took the time to help them be successful and enjoys being that supportive adult in their students’ lives today. “It reminds me of my own experiences, and I carry that with me as I work with each student,” they said, “It brings me so much joy to watch them progress throughout the year and get excited about reading.”
If you are looking for a change of pace or to really make a difference in your community, we have opportunities for you! Applications to be a part-time or full-time tutor will open February 15. Visit join.readingandmath.org to learn more and apply.