Terry Fox Elementary's Literacy Initiative: Building a Community of Readers

At Terry Fox Elementary, we believe that literacy is the cornerstone of a successful education. Our literacy initiative is a shining example of how teamwork and community spirit can come together to support our students' growth and development. This exciting program, overseen by our dedicated Learning Support Services (LSS) teachers, brings together students from different grades to foster a love of reading and improve literacy skills across the board.

Every morning, four days a week, the school buzzes with the energy of our Grade 5 student leaders as they prepare to meet with their younger peers from Kindergarten through Grade 3. These older students have taken on the role of literacy mentors, guiding the younger ones through a variety of engaging activities designed to meet each student where they are and help them move forward.

The program kicks off each day with a half-hour session filled with fun and interactive literacy games. These games are carefully selected to build the foundational skills of the students, meeting them where they are at. Whether it's matching letters and sounds, building vocabulary, working on sight words, or discovering digraphs and blends, the activities are designed to be both educational and enjoyable. The Grade 5 mentors bring enthusiasm and patience to their roles, making learning a positive experience for everyone involved.

Our LSS teachers play a crucial role in the success of this initiative. They provide guidance and support to the Grade 5 mentors, ensuring that the activities are tailored to the needs of the younger students. They also monitor progress and provide feedback, helping to make adjustments as needed to keep the program effective and engaging. The collaboration between the LSS teachers and the student mentors is a testament to the power of teamwork in achieving educational goals.

The impact of this initiative is already being felt throughout the school. Teachers have reported increased enthusiasm for reading among the younger students, and the Grade 5 mentors are developing valuable leadership and communication skills. Parents have also noticed a positive change, with many commenting on how their children are more eager to read at home and share what they've learned.

At Terry Fox Elementary, we are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive. Our literacy initiative is just one example of how we are working together to meet the needs of our students and help them achieve their full potential. We are incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication shown by our students and staff, and we look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of this program.

Together, we are building a community of readers, one story at a time.