This past year, qualified kindergarten through third grade USD 383 students saw their reading abilities improve thanks to a personalized approach to their needs; they worked with a reading tutor twice a week.

The sessions last only 30 minutes, but Manhattan educators have discovered the one-on-one sessions have the ability to improve reading scores as well as increase self-confidence and improve students’ attitude toward school.

The results have come courtesy of Schools of Hope, a signature volunteer program offered by the RSVP Volunteer Center. This program benefited over 55 students in four schools by a network of volunteers that included RSVP Volunteers, Kansas State University Students, and members of the SOH Corporate Volunteer Program.

The personalized instruction is aimed at students whose reading ability is "just below grade level" and who could benefit from the one-on-one attention. “The one-on-one nature of the program is a big reason for the program's success,” says Andrea Tiede; Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School Principal.

The Schools of Hope program began last school year at Theodore Roosevelt, Lee, Frank Bergman and Amanda Arnold elementary schools. This fall it will grow to include Bluemont and Marlatt elementary schools, according to Schools of Hope Coordinator Candice McIntosh. With this expansion, the program will impact 120 students.

Schools of Hope is in need of volunteers for the 2013-2014 school year who can dedicate one hour a week to the success of a child. Previous teaching experience is not required. Only desire to help and a commitment to your student is needed. Applications are being accepted now with tutoring sessions beginning in September. Contact Candice McIntosh at 785-776-7787 to become a volunteer tutor or fill out an application located at the Hospitality Desk and return by Friday, Aug. 16. A volunteer training session will be held at Meadowlark Hills at 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 22 in the KSU Classroom.