"I am so thrilled to be involved with RedRover Readers!"
January 8th, 2014
RedRover recently received this glowing testimonial from Susan Courtney, a RedRover Readers-trained elementary school teacher, after using the RedRover Readers curriculum in her classroom. (Susan is the same teacher who gave us this feedback right after attending the RedRover Readers Teacher Training.)
Hi Karly!
This has been a very exciting year, and the RedRover Readers curriculum has been at the forefront of it all! The literature picture books and discussions are a perfect fit with the Common Core State Standards. Recently, we had a cold spell (or at least it was cold for Los Angeles), and one of the students reported that she had rescued 5 cats and put them in her bedroom. She was upset because she had to let one back out as he was being too loud, and wanted to know if I could help. Another student chimed in that the cat could have his jacket, as it was very warm. Still another said, “Eewww, it will have lots of bugs in it.” And, the student willing to loan his jacket said, “Well, that’s nature too!”
After reading Buddy Unchained, a student asked if he would get in trouble for letting the dogs in his neighborhood out of their chains. I asked where they would go and that sparked a discussion about making a dog park in the area.
I am so thrilled to be involved with RedRover Readers,
Susan Courtney, Ed.D., NBCT
The feedback above illustrates several benefits of the RedRover Readers program.
Susan highlighted the types of conversations that are typical during RedRover Readers classroom discussions. Notice the peer-to-peer interactions that help children determine for themselves their collective responsibilities for others. Her students shared how they felt about helping the cats out of the cold, and displayed reflection about the well-being of others. In response to this discussion, one student demonstrated his feelings of empathy and generosity, and offered up his jacket.
As evidenced above, this conversation spurred a discussion about community needs and getting others involved to help animals, including asking adults and their teacher for assistance. Susan also mentioned how appreciative she is that the RedRover Readers program is aligned with the Common Core State Standards, and how excited she is about RedRover Readers in general.
We are thrilled that Susan’s students are already reaping the benefits of the RedRover Readers curriculum. RedRover is now working with Susan to arrange a professional development training for the teachers at her school and a neighboring school in Los Angeles, California.
Do you have a story to tell us about how you are using RedRover Readers in your classroom? Email them to info@RedRover.org.
RedRover Readers is a social and emotional learning program. Teachers train to implement the RedRover Readers curriculum, read with their students and promote empathy for people and animals.
