Fifty-five percent of fourth graders in California read below grade level. It's a shocking statistic, but it's a reality for thousands of children. The Jewish Coalition for Literacy is dedicated to reversing this statistic, one child at a time. Jewish tradition stresses the importance of tikkun olam‹literally, "repairing the world." JCL tutors volunteer at schools, after-school programs and evening programs throughout San Francisco, the East Bay and the Peninsula. Morning, afternoon and evening hours are available. Potential tutors choose a site and schedule based on what is most convenient for them.

For information, contact Helene Tinkler at 415.977.7414.

ADOPT A STUDENT THROUGH LITERACY:

Introduction and basic training provided by JCL staff to enable reading to second/third graders at our partner school in the Western Addition, Dr. William Cobb Elementary (located at 2725 California Street at Divisadero). Under the supervision of Principal Pat Forte and the YMCA after school program, Emanu-El teens, ages 12 and up, will help students continue to make gains in their reading proficiency, speed and comprehension. School community service hours available. Required: one hour of service after school each week before 6:00 PM.

To sign-up, please contact Social Justice Coordinator, Sandy Rechtschaffen at sandyr@emanuelsf.org