Parents

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Two summers ago, my son attended a reading program at a university. I was so nervous before the program started. I couldn’t wrap my head around sending my child, who was completely done with school, to another three weeks of school. I was afraid that every day would be a fight to get him there, that he wouldn’t fit in, and that we wouldn’t see any progress. I was afraid that we were going to sacrifice three weeks of our summer vacation, only to continue the struggle with reading. I couldn’t have been more wrong about this.

He loved the program, and I had no problem getting him up early every day to go. With this program, he had fun learning, felt supported in the small group activities, loved the food, and enjoyed the three weeks more than I ever could have imagined. Fast forward two years, and his grade 5 teacher (who also was his grade 2 teacher, so she knew his struggles) sent me an email at the end of the year to tell me that he not only was meeting grade level reading expectations but is above grade level reading expectations. I cried big proud happy tears. I know that he would not be achieving the same academic successes today without the help of the reading program. I will be forever thankful for this program and the confidence it has given my son.

Over the past few years, he has worked through several book series. He reads a lot of joke books, gaming books, and riddle books, and also enjoys his grandpa’s comic collections. He loves information and sifts through his dad’s old “How Things Work” book, asking questions about the interesting things he is reading. Just this year, he picked up his first full-length novel and read a story about a rover. He couldn’t put it down. I often find him reading to himself before bed, and sometimes far past his bedtime. Two years ago, I never would have imagined him here.”

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Having my daughter participate in the Reading University program has been extremely beneficial! It has given her confidence in her reading, and her fluency has greatly improved. I am so happy that she got to be part of that and I know it has made a difference with her progress in grade four. Thanks again for the opportunity!  ”

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The program was so beneficial to my child. She blossomed so much with her reading. It was very encouraging for her - it brought up her confidence level to read and it helped her understand reading concepts on a different level. She told me she didn't know why it was called reading university because they didn't really read! A great program! Keep up the great work!  ”

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Douglas had a wonderful time at reading university!!! His reading did improve -  he is now reading at grade level!!!!  ”

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Reading University was a unique and wonderful experience for my daughter. An exceptional program!  ”

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My son enjoyed going to the reading university. He had fun that built his confidence. I would say my son benefited positively from the camp although there are limitations to its impact as it is just one summer. He says he now barely remembers the program. However he has developed a growing interest in reading and creative writing, and I’d like to think that the Reading University is partially responsible. Thanks.  ”

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My son absolutely enjoyed his experience he had at Reading University! He was disappointed that it was only for 3 weeks. He wanted it to be all summer. What he learned has helped him with recognizing when he has made a mistake in his sentence and recognizing if the word he pronounces is wrong.”

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My son not only had a ton of fun but has shown significant improvement in his reading skills. He doesn't seem to struggle or get frustrated as much as he used to. When I asked him why that was he replied with ' Mom I learned some things at Reading University!!'  ”

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My daughter loved reading university and talks about it all the time. She tells everyone that it has helped her a lot and enjoys going to the library every few weeks. Thank you so much for the opportunity!

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My son, Lance, attended last year's session of reading university. It made a huge difference in

his reading fluency and confidence. He looked forward to going every day and I think this program is a wonderful gift to those who attend.  ”

“She is reading at home, I can see a difference.”

Volunteers

“I've been talking to everyone about what a wonderful program this is. It was a total package for student learning. I hope this program can continue -- our kids are worth the investment.”

“I love reading and encouraging a love of literacy. It was a wonderful experience for me. I hope that I left the students empowered to explore and enjoy reading.”

Staff

“This program is the ideal way to teach - and in a setting that is fun and exciting.  The results we see in three weeks are out of this world!”

“I have contacted some of the teachers since the students have been back in the classroom to see where their literacy levels are. So far the response is positive and encouraging!”

“Every year we get better at measuring where children are at when they come to the program and how much progress they make. I feel good about the difference we are making to our students' future.”

“Students in my group really needed positive reinforcement to help build their confidence. Their reading and comprehension increased from three to six levels. But many were desperately looking for someone to connect to.”

“I think the field trips were great because they allowed the kids to go to places where some will never go again.”

Students

“When I first got here, I didn't want to come.  But now that it's over, I don't want to leave.”

“EVERYTHING!!!! Reading University is awesome,cool,and fun!!!! I like the fild trips. I like the professors. I like the centers too. Tank you for the best 3 weeks.”

“Reading University is a place where friendship and love comes from.”

“My favorite part was riding on the school bus. That was awesome.”