Enhancing Student Success Through Community Engagement

ABC and Los Dichos volunteers promote literacy and positive school climate

Project Cornerstone’s ABC Readers and Los Dichos are district-supported initiatives dedicated to improving student achievement, engagement, and a positive school climate. 

Across the district, ABC and Los Dichos volunteers share books and reading activities to help students develop basic language, critical thinking skills, and positive connections among students, teachers, and parents. The stories and related activities follow monthly themes, such as Tolerance, Confidence, Caring, Empathy, Determination, Acceptance, and Enthusiasm. 

“It’s a great volunteer program,” said Lynhaven Community Liaison Noelia Smith. “It gives parents, teachers, and students the opportunity to engage in building literacy skills and help students feel more valued and supported.”

Most volunteers are parents, like those pictured here from Lynhaven School. Members of the Assistance League of Los Gatos-Saratoga and other community volunteers also read to and provide books for students. 

Nearly half of district students are from Hispanic cultures. Los Dichos is one more way to demonstrate the district’s commitment to providing families with opportunities for culturally relevant learning and student success in school. The program is based on literature that highlights Latino stories. As with the ABC Readers program, volunteers read selected books to students at school and lead activities that teach lessons. 

ABC and Los Dichos volunteers dedicate one hour a month to prepare and conduct classroom activities based on sample lessons provided by Project Cornerstone. Their commitment contributes significantly to fostering a rich and supportive learning environment for all students.

Interested in being a volunteer?
Contact the school office about opportunities for the coming school year.