Reading ASSIST Institute - Unlocking the written word... one sound at a time

Our Supporters — Current Funding Needs

• Train with the Experts Series –  RAI is committed to bringing area educators the most up to date information regarding research and best practices in teaching reading.  RAI’s successful Train with the Experts Series brings nationally renowned authors, researchers and experts in the field of reading to train teachers, reading specialists and tutors in the latest evidence-based instructional strategies.  We need your financial support to offer this valuable and unique program.
  
  The 2011 Summer Series will include:
  
  Dr. Susan Hall:  A member of the Reading First Review Panel; a Sopris West Certified Trainer for DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) and LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling);co-author with Dr. Louis C. Moats of two books, Straight Talk About Reading and Parenting a Struggling Reader. She will provide traiing on the use of multisensory techniques in teaching reading and comprehension.
  
  Dr. Antonio Fierro: A nationally recognized trainer, educator and author of reading programs, including Reading Street Texas. Dr. Fierro, a senior trainer for Sopris West, Inc., is also an adjunct professor at the University of Texas, El Paso. He will present LETRS: Teaching English Learners.
  
  Susan Ebbers: A PhD candidate at UC Berkley in Cognition and Development : Human Development and Education.  Ebbers will provide instruction on strategies to increase vocabulary and comprehension growth in elementary students. 
   
• Volunteer Tutor Program – Funding to defray training, materials and testing costs. 

• Parent Outreach Program – Funding to defray costs of presenting Parent ASSIST modules to parents at schools.

• General Operating Support – Funding to underwrite the administration of RAI’s programs.

• Special Events – Support for RAI’s annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon and Student Recognition Party.