What is the role of a reading mentor in a student's literacy journey?

The role of a reading mentor is essential in a student's literacy journey as they are there to provide support, guidance, and encouragement throughout the reading process. This involvement can take many forms, including helping students set achievable reading goals, recommending appropriate reading materials, and fostering a positive attitude towards reading. A mentor creates a nurturing environment where students feel comfortable exploring new texts, asking questions, and engaging in discussions about what they read.

Mentors understand that each student has unique needs and preferences, allowing them to tailor their support accordingly. This collaboration not only enhances the student’s reading skills but also instills confidence and a love for reading, which is vital for lifelong literacy development. They do not dictate how students should read or restrict their reading to the assessment period; instead, they actively engage with students and encourage independent exploration and critical thinking about texts.