After School Reading Enrichment Program

BEF invested in core academics at Montclair Elementary School, and as a result students made tremendous progress in their reading and writing abilities. Over the course of three months from January to March 2025, BEF supported readers after school to improve proficiency. This approach of finding ways to support students after school or during the summer is a key role for BEF to help students get a good start to education.

Montclair ES

Funded by: Community Support

At A Glance:

BEF Investment: $7423

BEF partnered with Montclair Elementary to fund a three-month long After School Reading Enrichment Program to increase reading skills while improving student perseverance and resilience.

BEF invested $7,400 to support an after-school program with BSD teachers and books for at-risk students who need the additional resources and support for their academic success. The program provided two hours a week of intense reading instruction for a group of nineteen students, with support such as small group instruction, reading buddies, reading games, and read-aloud.

After the end of the program in March of 2025, educators reported that 100% of participating students increased the amount of time they spent reading outside of school and increased their IRLA levels. With a small group of students to focus on, educators are able to focus on specific issues that the students have with reading comprehension.

By the end of the program, during partner reading, all students participated and engaged in reading aloud together. Even in library class, the librarian has seen increased engagement of students due to student involvement in the after school program. BEF continues to support Montclair Elementary in bridging the reading disparity gap by investing in Summer Boost, as Montclair joins the program during the Summer of 2025.

“You have been amazing at helping our daughter with her reading - we've noticed a HUGE leap in her reading abilities (including out loud). We truly appreciate all the time you've given to teaching these kids, thank you THANK YOU!”

“Our daughter has LOVED this so much and she comes home in a great mood every time - I wish it could go longer.”

“Montclair’s students and parents are sending a big thank you to all of you for the time and effort you have put in to improve our kids’ reading skills. We have seen such great improvement in confidence and reading skills. Thank you to the teachers and to BEF for providing our kids with this opportunity!”

“Our student has gotten very involved in a book series that the teachers at the After School Reading Enrichment program introduced to them. He loves it! He hated reading and books before this, and now we are going to the library weekly to find the next book in the series! Thanks to all who helped with the After School program. We are so lucky to have this opportunity at Montclair.”

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