Read to Excel
Read-to-Excel Mentoring Program
“Read to Excel” falls under the direction of Lungile and Nkazi Sinanadile, but is planned and executed by a group of Albuquerque Academy students. This vital program provides both academic support as well as mentorship for IRRVA student participants. Each class includes personal and/or small group instruction by a large number of dedicated volunteers from Albuquerque Academy, with each session including practice in speaking English, reading, writing, and math, as well as assistance with homework. Snacks are provided for students at each session. Social/recreational events are also planned for the IRRVA students by the Read-to-Excel tutors, and are offered at regular intervals throughout the school year. This weekly program meets on Saturdays, 2-4pm.
In 2013, IRRVA partnered with Albuquerque Academy Half the Sky Club and tutors from POWER NM. Originally the volunteers provided tutoring to a family of 5. Later, in October of 2013, IRRVA secured space from La Mesa Presbyterian Church. Most of these youth were identified by the co-founders of IRRVA to be reading way below level. The volunteers provide one-on-one and group support in literacy skills. All kids are welcomed regardless of country of origin or ethnicity, religion or ability.