Linda Ross

Ross' "Project Read-Along" engages high school juniors and seniors in the creation and production of traditional books and e-books for local elementary school students who need extra help with their reading skills. The books, which are distributed free of charge, have various themes centering on problems an elementary school student might face - moving to a new neighborhood, attending a new school or encountering a bully. The program teaches high school students the value of community service and the importance of being a mentor, in addition to teaching writing skills, Web site design and cooperative learning skills. The younger students benefit from additional reading practice and the mentor relationship they develop with the high school students.