Elon University's America Reads America Counts program is a Federal Work Study program created in 1997 designed to not only educate youth, but to also provide college students with an outlet to fulfill their work study requirements and delve deeper into the community around us.
Elon University’s America Reads America Counts program, housed in the Kernodle Center for Civic Life, has played a pivotal role in enhancing education in Alamance County for many years, demonstrating a commitment to improving educational outcomes for local youth.
“Elon University’s America Reads program is dedicated to improving the literacy and mathematical skills of Alamance County youth by fostering a love for learning and providing local schools and afterschool programs with trained tutors to support their educational efforts,” said Lily Austin, an America Reads America Counts coordinator.
The program’s coordinators actively recruit, hire and train Elon students to serve as tutors, empowering them to work directly with children across the county. These tutors go beyond academic assistance, building positive mentorships and creating an engaging and supportive environment that makes learning enjoyable. The impact of the program is evident not only in the academic growth of the students but also in the strong, supportive relationships formed between tutors and the youth they mentor.
“This opportunity opens the eyes of Elon students to the challenges within their surrounding community. It allows them to step outside the ‘Elon bubble,’ learn about the culture of the Alamance Burlington School System and engage with fellow community members,” said Austin. “Students interested in education or child development can leverage this experience to cultivate essential skills and make a meaningful impact.”
Elon students involved in the program are known for forging long-lasting relationships with the students and teachers they work with, creating a foundation of trust and a shared passion for learning that enriches the community and enhances the tutors’ educational and personal development.
America Reads America Countys tutoring is a rolling application as a work study position. If you are interested visit the Kernodle Center for Civic Life in Moseley 232 or email americareads@elon.edu.