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Photo Caption: Volunteer Carol Rothenberg Working with a Student.
Rotary Expands Literacy Support at Stevens Brook and Crooked River Elementary Schools
The Bridgton Lake Region Rotary Club is entering its third year of working with elementary school students to strengthen literacy skills at Stevens Brook Elementary School in Bridgton and Crooked River Elementary School in Casco.
The initiative began in 2024 with a Rotary District Grant that provided $4,000 in new library and classroom books for Stevens Brook. As part of that project, a team of Rotarians and Friends of Rotary began working one on one with students — especially third and fourth graders who had lost valuable in school learning time during COVID. The program’s success led to a second grant and expansion to Crooked River in 2025.
Today, both schools have asked Rotary to return and even expand the model into additional grade levels. The primary focus remains reading. Teachers and administrators see firsthand how individualized attention helps students gain confidence, strengthen skills, and make meaningful academic progress.
That success has created a new challenge: Rotary needs more volunteers.
No teaching experience is required. Volunteers are asked to make a regular weekly commitment of at least one hour, though substitute volunteers are also welcome. Schedules begin in late September or early October, once teachers have assessed student needs, and continue through the school year.
Most volunteers work individually with several students for about 20 minutes each, spending roughly an hour at the school. Volunteers are not expected to be teachers — they simply offer encouragement, focused practice, and a steady presence that helps children thrive.
All volunteers complete a vetting and orientation process coordinated by Rotary and the schools to ensure a safe, supportive environment for children. Rotary coordinators at each school provide ongoing guidance.
“This is a rewarding opportunity to give back to the community and make a lasting difference in a child’s life,” said Rotarian Joanne Cohn, a longtime advocate for children and their success.
To learn more or to apply to be a Rotary literacy volunteer, contact Joanne Cohn at joanne.cohn643@gmail.com.
