In response to President Clinton s America Reads Challenge, The University of Montana has strengthened its commitment to help Missoula schoolchildren become better readers. During the past two years of the program, UM placed more than 30 work-study tutors and 100 college student volunteers in local elementary schools to serve as literacy tutors and provide one-to-one assistance and support for young readers. The program involves a variety of partners on campus and in the community including Volunteer Action Services, the School of Education, Financial Aid, the local school district, and the state Office of Public Instruction. Through their participation, college student tutors gain an awareness of different educational needs of youth in the community and are exposed to the benefits of serving their community.

America Reads web site: http://www.ed.gov/americareads/