About Reading Corps
Reading Corps is a high-impact tutoring program rooted in evidence-based reading instruction for students in grades K-3. Tutors in Reading Corps help students improve their reading skills. The program trains tutors to deliver proven activities and coaches tutors every step of the way.
Students who are strong readers by the end of third grade are positioned to be strong learners the rest of their lives. However, in the U.S., more than two-thirds of students reach fourth grade without learning to read proficiently. Reading Corps tutors make a demonstrable impact: after a single semester, the average kindergarten student in Reading Corps performs twice as well as their peers.
- Be a caring adult who’s focused on helping children thrive
- Lead tutoring sessions and follow a schedule to ensure students receive support
- Track student progress and meet regularly with the school’s on-site coach
- Conduct skill assessments and enter student scores in data software
- Commit to your own growth through coaching and training
- Share your experience with the community
Essential Qualifications
- Dependable and have a history of good attendance
- Able to follow instructions and make improvements based on feedback
- Proficient in basic computer skills (like email and navigating online)
- Fluent in English for speaking, reading, and writing
- 18 years of age or older with a high school diploma or equivalent
- All AmeriCorps members must:
- Have served less than four AmeriCorps service terms
- Be able to pass a criminal history background check
- Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident of the U.S.
- “It’s gratifying that my work might have made a difference.” – Kris, Reading Corps tutor
- “I saw the support my son received from his tutors, and the relationship was very special. I know if I could help someone’s child in their academic journey, I wanted to do so in return.” – Sara, Reading Corps tutor in Forest Lake
- “Having a strong desire to pursue a career in education, I believed this would be a great opportunity to pursue relevant tutoring experience and a chance to develop my skills working with multiple age groups.” – Reggie, Reading Corps tutor
AmeriCorps members also love serving with Reading Corps because in Reading Corps, they can:
- Build relationships with children and help them improve their skills
- Connect to the community and professionals in the education field
- Gain experience in a school setting that enhances their resume
- Earn money for student loans or future education expenses
- Have a chance to be a part of a successful, research-based program
- Through the MNGOT (Minnesota Grown your Own Teacher) Program, you can earn a master’s degree and an elementary teaching license through the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities with approximately $10,000 in tuition assistance. This program is available to AmeriCorps members with a bachelor’s degree and who have at least two remaining years of AmeriCorps service. (AmeriCorps members can serve up to four terms of service total).
- Members can take virtual classes through the MNGOT Program and will only need to be in-person for class once a month. Any participant who lives in Greater MN will get hotel accommodations during their monthly in-person visit to the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities campus.
- Reach out to CareerPathways@ampact.us for more information.
Interested in our other AmeriCorps programs? Check out our program list or take our service quiz.
Reading Corps is partially funded with a grant from the Minnesota Department of Education. This does not necessarily represent the policy of or endorsement by the State of Minnesota.
