Foundation Partner Read Charlotte Offers Free Reading Checkup

Foundation Partner Read Charlotte Offers Free Reading Checkup

Among the challenges families face during the COVID-19 crisis, the potential for learning loss is a top concern. To prevent backslide, Albemarle Foundation partner Read Charlotte has started a “Reading Checkup" program. The program is free and accessible to all families, not just those located in Charlotte.

Read Charlotte is a collaborative, community-wide initiative working to double the percentage of Charlotte third grade students reading at grade level from 39% in 2015 to 80% by 2025. In 2018, Albemarle Foundation awarded the organization a $1 million grant, to be given over 5 years, as part of our $10 million community investment focused on improving economic mobility.

Through a free Home Literacy Coach, Read Charlotte is partnering with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to provide a way for families to determine the current reading levels of students entering Kindergarten through fourth grade this fall. It also provides suggested at-home activities to keep students on track for reading at grade-level. Students are at a greater risk of falling behind this summer because the typical “Summer Slump" many children experience is now compounded because of the time spent out of a traditional school setting due to COVID-19.

“We are committed to guiding families to proven solutions addressing the specific needs of their children and are realistic to manage. Getting a Reading Checkup is the first step in helping our youngest children thrive in these uncertain times," says Read Charlotte Executive Director Munro Richardson.

A report released in June by McKinsey and Company estimates that the average K-12 student may lose 7 months of learning by fall 2020 due to school closures caused by COVID-19. But black students may fall behind by 10.3 months, Hispanic students by 9.2 months, and low-income students by more than a year. The report estimates that this would exacerbate existing achievement gaps by 15 to 20 percent.

Families are encouraged to visit ReadingCheckup.org to:

  • Determine their rising K-4 students' reading level with two quick online quizzes.
  • Determine the specific reading skills their children need to improve.
  • Receive recommendations for targeted activities they can do at home.

The minimum technology requirement is a smartphone.

Through partners like Read Charlotte, we continue to Grow the Good for students and families throughout our communities. Click here to visit the Reading Checkup.

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