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"How can we graduate more students from IPS? The answer, in a word, is reading. The data is compelling: When an IPS fourth-grade student is reading at grade level he will most likely stay academically engaged and on track to graduate. We welcome the people and businesses of this community who are working to help IPS fourth-graders improve their reading skills." Dr. Eugene G. White Superintendent Indianapolis Public Schools

Why reading in 4th grade matters

The issue

Research shows that fourth grade is a crucial turning point in a
child’s education. Through 3rd grade, children are learning to read. 
At 4th grade, they must begin reading to learn.  About 30% of all
Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) 4th-graders are reading two or
more grades below their current grade level. In many cases, this is
the beginning of a path that carries a high risk of not graduating from
high school.

United Way of Central Indiana’s response

ReadUP targets students who can benefit from additional reading
practice and a relationship with a caring adult. Volunteers will be
matched with students and spend one hour each week (or every
other week, if alternating with a partner) on vocabulary, fluency and comprehension.

United Way has determined that a key to breaking the cycle of need
in our community is ensuring that kids enter school ready to learn
and graduate ready to earn. Volunteer tutors will play an important
role in the success of our community by having a direct impact on
the academic success of our children.

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