LEAP (Literacy Enhancement & Advancement Project)

LEAP (Literacy Enhancement & Advancement Project)

Project Focus: Early childhood literacy.

Target Audience and Location: Kindergarten through 3rd grade students enrolled in the after-school program at Southside Preparatory Academy identified as having low English proficiency in Miami, Florida.

Vision: Students have a joyful and supportive experience learning English so that they can thrive and have access to equal opportunities throughout life.

Mission: To nurture young English language learners so that they confidently build their literacy skills by providing consistent after-school tutoring with caring high school volunteers.

Project Description: Scholar Amy Zho and educator Martha Cabrera always knew they wanted to focus their Scholar project on literacy, something they were both passionate about. Their project was developed to support Southside Preparatory Academy’s kindergarten through third-grade students who are in their after-school program and struggling with low English proficiency. Their goal is to create a positive and engaging learning environment where these students can build their literacy skills and gain confidence.

LEAP provides consistent after-school tutoring, pairing students in the after-school program with dedicated high school volunteers who offer personalized attention and guidance. Through this support, students can improve their reading, writing, and language skills in a nurturing and patient environment. The project aims to ensure that all students, regardless of their language background, have the foundational skills needed to succeed academically and access equal opportunities in their futures.

As a student leader, Amy is most proud of “assembling a team committed to volunteering twice every week over the course of eight months and watching my team become invested in their students’ learning and growth.”