Start The Adventure in Reading

For 40 years, Start The Adventure In Reading (STAIR)'s mission has been to increase the reading skills and self-esteem of lower elementary students. STAIR provides free, one-on-one tutoring to local children at risk of failing reading. Our goal is to change the life-long opportunities for our children, making our community a happier, healthier and safer place for everyone.

The literacy crisis in New Orleans is urgent: 51% of second graders and 47% of third graders are failing reading. By fourth grade, students are expected to shift from “learning to read” to “reading to learn,” yet many are promoted without the skills needed to succeed. Teachers report that students who cannot comprehend lessons often experience frustration, disengagement, and declining self-esteem. STAIR exists to interrupt this trajectory.

Through a curriculum that builds phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension, STAIR tutors provide each child with caring, undivided attention. This free, virtual or in-person, one-on-one tutoring aims to reach struggling young students before they fall too far behind in school.

Testimonials

"I signed my son up to help improve his DIBELS scores as he was scoring well below in one area throughout the year. I’m pleased to say that my son scored well above on his end-of-year (EOY) DIBELS test!" - Maryl, STAIR Parent

"Lucy loves STAIR!  It has really helped her reading confidence and given her more books she knows she can practice reading independently." - Carroll, STAIR Parent

"Foremost, I had a GREAT kid; she was fun, motivated, and already loved reading. It made my 'job' very easy.  The curriculum was easy to work with and seemed excellent, age-appropriate, fun, and interesting." - Dean, STAIR Tutor