This month we are taking a look at the relationship between Yusuf, a reading mentor from Medgar Evers College, and his student Sean.
Sean is a naturally gregarious first grader with tons of energy. So, when Sean comes to Read Ahead, Yusuf has done an incredible job with the task of channeling Sean’s energy towards their activities. Occasionally, Sean struggles with reading challenging words, saying to Yusuf “I can’t!”—, to which Yusuf always insists, “you can!” Yusuf works hard each session to encourage Sean to do his best and embody a positive mental attitude. Whenever the Read Ahead Program Coordinator gives the pairs their five-minute warning that program will be ending soon, Sean always wants “10 more minutes!”
Sean’s first grade teacher, Ms. Monroe, pulled aside the Program Coordinator to reveal that not only has his reading confidence improved, but his comprehension has skyrocketed. She noted that in the beginning of the year, Sean had trouble recalling the details of books they read in class; now, he retains all of the information. Yusuf and Sean have developed a special connection—; they’re the perfect example of the powerful impact a mentor can have on a young person’s life.