Readers Are Leaders
Become a Literacy Volunteer
A couple hours a week can change a child's future.
Join our literacy volunteers and help TK–3rd grade students build the reading skills they need to succeed.
Readers are Leaders is a new literacy initiative supporting TK–3rd grade students in Santa Barbara Unified schools–three campuses have been chosen for the pilot year.Volunteers are trained and matched with classrooms to provide one-on-one or small group reading support.
This partnership between Partners in Education, the Santa Barbara Education Foundation, and Santa Barbara Unified School District aims to ensure every young reader gets the time, encouragement, and skills they need to succeed.
2025-26 School Sites include:
- Adams Elementary
- Cleveland Elementary
- McKinley Elementary
If funding allows, we plan to continue and grow this program beyond three schools and one school year. You can help ensure success by volunteering or donating!
Why It Matters
- 1 in 3 students in our county are reading below grade level by 3rd grade (CA Department of Education)
- Early literacy is is a key indicator of high school success (Annie E Casey Foundation)
- Volunteers help bridge the gap by providing consistent, caring reading support
- Stronger readers = stronger learners = stronger communities
By making a weekly commitment, you can help a child become a confident, capable reader.
What We Ask of You
- Complete a TB test and Live Scan background check (we cover the cost!)
- Attend a training session
- Commit to volunteering at least 2 hours per week, during school hours
- Be consistent, communicative, and follow teacher guidance
We’ll work with your schedule to place you at a school and time that fits.
Steps to Volunteer
Fill out the Volunteer Interest Form
Complete the Full Volunteer Application
Get TB and LiveScan Clearances
Attend Training
Get matched with a classroom and start volunteering!
GET STARTED TODAY!
GET STARTED TODAY!
Support the Readers are Leaders Program (for Donors)
Don’t have time to volunteer? You can still help!
Your gift helps pay for volunteer training, background checks, transportation support, and high-quality reading materials.
FAQs
We’ll send you step-by-step instructions and pay for the cost.
No problem! We’ll train you in simple, proven techniques—no teaching degree required.
Just let us know. We’ll work with you to adjust or pause your assignment.
If your school is one of the sites for the program pilot, then most likely yes! Let us know your preference on the interest form.
Questions? Reach out to us at volunteer@sbceo.org