PROJECT LITERACY & PROJECT GRADUATION
Projects Literacy and Graduation were started in Marshall County, Alabama, to equip students in our community with mentors who encourage them in elementary and high school. Helping kids read on grade level, educating them on career options after graduating high school, and being an encouraging adult figure are important for the future of kids who may be struggling and the future of the community.
Why is this so important?
- Students who don't read on a grade level by third grade are four times more likely to drop out once they reach high school.
- Approximately 70% of people processed by the Marshall County District Attorney (where Progress Rail is headquartered) are high school dropouts.
- 75% of crimes are committed by dropouts.
- 1 in 10 dropouts will end up in prison.
- On average, each dropout costs taxpayers approximately $292,000.
Project Literacy volunteers serve as reading and mentoring partners for second and third grade students at elementary schools in Marshall County, reading with two students for thirty minutes each, once per week. Participants receive training and are prepped with specific lessons to maximize the reading sessions during the school year.
Project Graduation volunteers attend half-day sessions once per month. Selected high school students participate in mentoring sessions, tours at local businesses, and training via the Junior Achievement Career Success curriculum. The goal is to show students what opportunities exist when they graduate high school. Not every student should or wants to go to college. This program shows at-risk students another path that is achievable and can provide them with the opportunity to successfully live, work and raise a family.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Contact Jessica Webb
