(BLUEFIELD)--During a normal day, Bluefield State College Assistant Professor Angela Lambert lectures and demonstrates procedures for her radiologic technology students as they examine the intricacies of this technology-reliant field of medicine. Three or four times a month, she reads to another group of students, considerably younger, but just as eager to learn. Lambert is a volunteer in the West Virginia Education Alliance's "Read Aloud" program.

"I have a nine-year old daughter (Allyson) and seven-year old twins (Rebekah and Ryne) who attend Glenwood Elementary School, and the "Read Aloud" program provided an opportunity to get involved in helping the school," Lambert explained. She noted that only 20% of parents read to their young children each day, and that about 90% of all third and fourth grade students in West Virginia had not read a book (beyond class reading assignments) during the past six months. "Each 'Read Aloud' volunteer must complete a training program that includes suggestions and tips regarding reading style and age-appropriate book selections," the BSC faculty member said. "Every school participating in 'Read Aloud' has a program coordinator, and the volunteers help to motivate children to want to read by sharing their own love of reading with the students and stimulating their interest in books."

During the past two years, Lambert has read to students in grades kindergarten-5. "The kids stay focused, and they're very appreciative," Lambert added. "The experience has been refreshing to me--a nice change of pace from my regular teaching responsibilities. 'Read Aloud' helps to enrich young students' minds and enhance their education. I strongly encourage other parents to contact their local schools and get involved in 'Read Aloud.'"

December 8, 2003