Learn more about how to apply to receive free Orton-Gillingham-based tutoring for your child
Research emphasizes the profound impact reading has on a child's overall development, from sharpening problem-solving skills to fostering better decision-making and enhancing their self-assurance.
At Churchill, we're dedicated to helping every student receive the support they need to thrive in their reading journey. Our program, led by expertly trained teachers, follows a scientifically proven systematic approach designed to minimize frustration and maximize progress.
We believe that we are stronger together, which is why we created the #OneChurchill Community Reading Initiative. Through this initiative, we are sharing our time, talents, and resources to make reading an accessible adventure for every child, igniting their curiosity for learning and discovery. Please read on to learn more about how you can apply to receive 27 weeks of free Orton-Gillingham-based instruction for your child.
Together, we're building a brighter future, one page at a time.
About The #OneChurchill Reading Initiative
The Reading Initiative is a free after-school program that provides 27 weeks of free systematic Orton-Gillingham phonics instruction using the Preventing Academic Failure (PAF) program. Classes are taught by trained teachers in small groups of no more than eight students, providing valuable support to families who may not have access to private tutoring or additional reading assistance in their school district.
The reading initiative is tailored specifically for qualifying students who:
- Have completed Kindergarten but are having difficulty with sound/symbol recognition, OR
- Are in Grades 1, 2, or 3 and are struggling to read, and/or are dyslexic, AND
- Do not have extra reading support offered to them through their school district
Program Details
- The 27-week term begins in late October and runs through early June.
- Classes take place on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 4:00 - 5:00 pm.
- Families can choose between online or in-person sessions.
- Participation is for the full 27 weeks, and children are expected to attend both of the sessions that take place each week.
Key Considerations Before Applying
Please note that because reading instruction is sequential, each lesson builds on previous material, so consistent attendance is very important. Please give careful thought to the time and travel commitments involved for you, your child, and other family members.
- Students with three undocumented absences in a row will be removed from our roster.
- Sign-in begins at 3:50 pm.
- Students arriving after 4:15 will not be allowed to enter their class and will be marked as absent.
- An adult (18+) must accompany the child to/from classes.
The Admissions Process - What to Expect
The Reading Initiative has a two-part admissions process:
Application
The application must be completed by the parent/guardian and be received on/before the date listed on the application. For your child’s application to be considered, it’s important that ALL fields are accurately filled out. After carefully reviewing all completed applications, if we believe that our phonics-based instruction would benefit your child, we will reach out to you via email to schedule the next step of the admissions process.
Screening and Evaluation
The next step in the process is a 30-minute screening, where your child will meet one-on-one with a reading teacher for an informal assessment at Churchill. We will send you an email the week before with the exact time slot for your child’s appointment, making it easier for you to plan ahead.
We want to ensure the most accurate assessment, so please understand that the results will not be available immediately after the screening. Rest assured that we will take the time to carefully score each evaluation. Once all assessments are complete, we will promptly inform you of acceptance determinations via email.
Please know that our evaluation process is designed specifically for our program’s acceptance and placement purposes. It is meant to help us create the best learning environment for your child. While the results are not intended for IEP or other educational uses and won’t be shared with you, we are committed to providing your child with the support they need to thrive in our program.
We are no longer accepting Reading Initiative applications for 2024. The application process will open back up in early 2025.
