WHEREAS, The reading ability of children affects all areas of learning. The Washington Reading Corps is an innovative program assisting young students across Washington State in need of extra help learning to read; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington Reading Corps is a cost-effective approach which has served over 85,000 struggling readers since 1998 utilizing research-based tutoring interventions; and
     WHEREAS, Washington Reading Corps schools improve their WASL scores at a greater rate than the state average; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington Reading Corps creates effective collaborations among schools, families, community members, national service, private business, and state partners; and
     WHEREAS, A combination of state and federal funding creates positions for nearly 300 AmeriCorps and VISTA members per year to serve as tutors, volunteer coordinators, and facilitators of family literacy activities; and
     WHEREAS, AmeriCorps and VISTA members serving in this team-based program receive extensive training related to their school service and civic involvement, which often leads to the pursuit of education-related careers;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the State of Washington recognize the Washington Reading Corps activities for improving the lives of thousands of young people and their tutors, as well as strengthening family connections to the education community.