OHS Parenting Class Helps Elementary Readers
 

 

For the past two months, Otsego High School students have been building their social interaction skills while helping Washington Street Elementary students improve their reading ability. High School teacher Tim DeVary’s Parenting Education students have devoted half of each class period to helping third and fourth graders with reading lessons.

“I was looking for an activity that my Parenting Education students could do with younger kids,” Mr. DeVary said of the arrangement.

His students spent two weeks being trained in the proper way to teach reading. Since then, they’ve met each morning at the Washington Street Elementary library to encourage young readers. Students have been placed in groups based on their reading level.
“We’ve been reading to them and practicing reading skills with them,” said junior Caitlyn Larry. “It’s gone pretty well. I like my kids. I’m learning a lot about how to get along with them.”

“It’s really fun and helpful,” said third grade student Cheyenne Smith, who was paired with Caitlyn Larry.
Mr. DeVary said he’s been pleased to see his students develop management techniques. “They’ve had to learn how to speak to younger kids. I’ve seen how that’s changed,” he said. High school students who were initially casual have become more authoritative, prompting a respect from the youngsters they’re working with. “They’ve all gotten something out of it. They’ve developed relationships. That’s important, too,” said Mr. DeVary.

Sophomore Brittany Dake said she’s found the activity rewarding. “It’s fun,” she said. “I get along with my girls and with my boys.” Dake said she guides the youngsters while they read stories. After several sessions, the younger students’ reading was tested. “They seem to be improving a lot,” said Dake. She hopes to return to Washington Street Elementary to help more students read when her schedule opens up during the third semester.

Mr. DeVary said he would like to incorporate the reading lessons into his parenting class curriculum for good.
Mrs. Heather Badders, Washington Street Elementary principal agrees that the endeavor has been beneficial. “It was an excellent opportunity for the high school students to get a feel for working with kids who are so little,” she said. “The high schoolers are very responsible.” Mrs. Badders said the high school students were surveyed to see how the arrangement might be adjusted. “I think everyone really enjoyed the experience,” she said. “It was great for both groups and a lot of the elementary kids made improvements in reading thanks to daily practice.”