Our Programs
The hallmark of the Reading Team is early intervention with focused instruction by skilled teachers. We operate a Preschool Program, sending Literacy Coaches into neighborhood classrooms, and an After-School Program, welcoming children grades K-5 to our cheerful, language-rich classroom on 125th Street.
Preschool Program
From September through June each year, our free Preschool Program serves children ages 3 and 4 at Harlem child care centers and preschools, equipping them with the foundational early literacy skills and concepts needed for success in elementary school. Twice a week, Reading Team Literacy Coaches engage preschoolers in groups of 10 to 15 in 60 minutes of conversation, letter and word games, singing and dancing, and interactive storybook reading.
After-School Program
The Reading Team’s free After-School Program serves children in Grades K-5 from 17 elementary schools in Harlem Monday through Friday during the 36-week school year. Children receive 30 minutes of homework help, 90 minutes of literacy instruction and support, and 30 minutes of enrichment activities. Once a week, students also work on math literacy skills with volunteers from Columbia University. Each student benefits from approximately 450 hours per year of instructional time. Four days a week, we also operate a satellite After-School Program at Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary School in West Harlem.