The Clovis Family Literacy Program is taking a family-centred approach to reading skills.

It encourages parents to be physically present and actively participate in what their children are learning.

Almost half of all adults in New Mexico function at the lowest two literacy levels, according to the New Mexico Coalition for Literacy. Many cannot write a simple letter or understand a bus schedule, a coalition press release said.

“You can educate a child, but if you educate the family you have a better chance of breaking the cycle of illiteracy,” said James Bickley Elementary literacy program teacher Shannon Arredondo.

“One of the most important things we can do is realize that literacy is very difficult to achieve. (But) I am really encouraged by this program,” Arredondo said.

Read the full article: Clovis uses family approach in literacy program