Boys and girls clubs offering new reading and math programs

ST. CLOUD (WJON News) – A local organization is offering new programs to help students get back on track in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota is partnering with area districts and the United Way of Central Minnesota to provide extra help for children in reading and math to close the growing achievement gap.

Minnesota Department of Education and standardized test results show that in 2022, 49% of students in the state are meeting standards in reading and that number drops to 42% for math.

The first new program is called American Reading Company. Students are assessed to determine their reading level, taught to find appropriate and interesting things to read, and then given books to build their confidence and reading skills.

The second program is run through a digital platform called Edmentum and helps children with reading and math. Children are assessed based on their current level, then the software creates an individualized learning path using different activities and exercises to develop their skills. Students should be online and working for approximately 20 minutes two or three times a week for each learning area.

School districts in several areas of the state also use this program to help students. Currently, 60 St. Cloud area students use Edmentum through the Boys and Girls Club, but that number is expected to change.