Book Buddies is a virtual reading program for elementary students (grades K-5) that pairs them with a mentor and allows them to read aloud to their “Buddy” twice per week in a scheduled online session. Students receive incentives based on the number of hours they read. Reading is the foundational skill for all other subjects. 

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Research indicates that up to third grade, students are learning to read. After that, they are reading to learn. Students who have not developed adequate reading skills are at increased risk for failing to make adequate academic progression. Children that are not reading at grade level by the third grade are also at higher risk for not graduating high school and other detrimental outcomes.