Scott Spino Literacy Program

In 2005 the Scott Spino Foundation established the Scott Spino Literacy Program, which was launched at Lincoln School 22, where our son was a beloved teacher, and was passionate about making a difference in the lives of the children. Scott was killed by a drunk driver on October 31, 2004 , and to honor his extraordinary life, the Foundation was established in his memory. For more information about Scott and the Foundation, please visit: www.scottspinofoundation.org The goal of the Literacy Program is to increase students' access to literature, and their exposure to adults with fluent Literacy skills.

We have a two-pronged approach: Every month, a volunteer brings a book and reads 1-on-1 with the child for 30 minutes. Our first year, we set a goal of 100 adults to meet 1-on-1 with 2 nd graders. We exceeded this expectation with well over 200 volunteers, and were able to extend the program to 3 rd graders. After the first year, the children showed improvements in their comprehensive skills, recognition of words, and the fun of reading. For the 2006-2007 school year, we expanded the Literacy program to include 1 st , 2 nd and 3 rd graders. Once a month, a guest reader reads a book to the entire group of 1 st , 2 nd , or 3rd graders. The Foundation provides each child with a copy of the book which allows them to read along. Please contact me if you would like to witness the twinkle in a child's eye as they discover the joy of reading, the thrill/excitement of knowing someone cares and they matter. Help us to enhance the lives of the children by becoming a volunteer. Your assistance will help us carry on Scott's dreams and his vision to enhance the lives of the children in our community.