Computer Assisted Literacy Solution
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One in four kids in B.C. are failing to read at Grade level. Now Rotarians can help. these struggling students improve their reading and comprehension skills with proven, award-winning computer software that Rotary International calls the Computer Assisted Literacy Solution (CALS). 

 

The Rotary Club of Vancouver (RCV) started a CALS Project in 2008 and they now help over 200 Vancouver students in eight schools with the support of dedicated principals and teachers and BC Gaming funds.  These educators, their students and parents agreed to participate in a newly released testimonial film created for RCV's members. Elementary students with and without identified reading disabilities share how they are proud of their reading improvement of up to three grade levels in one calendar year. Teachers and moms declare how they are amazed and pleased with children's results.  The film, entitled CALS and Rotary will be posted on the RCV website and it should help other clubs garner support to start CALS in their local schools.  The District Conference literacy session on Saturday, May 7th at 1:45 p.m. will include a CALS session and Government House Literacy Projects. 

 

CALS projects in schools are best started in September, as participant licenses are for one calendar year (Cost: US$80/student).  So, now is the time to be approaching your existing school partners to consider starting a CALS project in their new classes this fall! RI's CALS software partner, School Specialty Literacy and Intervention, provides Rotarians with an introductory film and fact sheets about how to start a CALS project on their website

  

RCV's has found that B.C. educators welcome the Academy of Reading® and Academy of Math® intervention programs in CALS, as they can help several students at once in their computer labs.  CALS is good for students with learning disabilities and students who are English language learners.  Students should work online 3-5 times a week for around 25 minutes per session. CALS pre and post-tests students, documents time-on-task, and it records student errors to inform the teacher's valuable one-to-one instructional time.  Kids love the animated instruction, puzzles and rewards. Parents are thrilled with their children's academic gains and growing confidence. Principals also note improved behaviors.

 

Terry Miller, president of the Rotary Club of Vancouver, shares that "We are proud to partner with the dedicated educators who are desperate for resources to help their struggling students learn how to read. Our club would welcome other Rotary Club partners to maintain and increase CALS partner sites in Vancouver and around the province."

 

Please check the RCV's website for more information on RCV's project or contact RCV CALS Coordinator Fran Thompson T: 604-565-8702; Email.