Name: Kira Kiraly
Hometown: Hamden, CT
College and Major: University of Connecticut, Psychology
Tutoring Site: Science Park
Clubs: Arts and Crafts I, Arts and Crafts II, Chess
Favorite Childhood Book: Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

Working with children has always been a passion of mine. Anyone who knows me knows how much joy and meaning I find in supporting kids and making a positive impact in their lives. Leading up to this summer, I had been searching for an internship that truly aligned with my goal
of making a difference. When I came across New Haven Reads during my search, I was immediately drawn to their mission. After learning more about the organization and receiving a strong recommendation from a family friend, I knew this was exactly where I wanted to be.

Walking into Science Park on my first day, I was definitely a little nervous, but mostly excited to meet the kids and make a positive impact in whatever ways I could. From day one, I’ve had the incredible privilege of getting to know and work with the most amazing students. Whether it’s helping a child sound out a new word, finish a book for the first time, or feel confident enough to ask a question, every moment has felt meaningful. One of the most rewarding parts has been running the summer clubs, where I’ve watched students grow not just academically but socially, collaborating with one another, strengthening their teamwork skills, and forming friendships. The bonds we’ve built are unforgettable, and it’s hard to find a moment when I’m not smiling in that environment.

The staff at New Haven Reads have also played a huge part in making this experience so special. From the moment I arrived, they’ve created a space that is welcoming, uplifting, and full of support. I’ve learned so much from them, and I’m beyond grateful for their guidance and
encouragement. I truly could not have asked for a better team. Being part of this organization has been a gift, every day here is centered around the kids, and every effort feels like it’s making a real difference. I’m so thankful to have been part of something this powerful and special.

Name: Aedy VanHouten
Hometown: Wallingford, CT
College and Major: Southern Connecticut State University, Major in Studio Art and Dual Major in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in English Literature and Arts Administration
Tutoring Site: Willow Street Clubs: Arts and Crafts and Elements of Art
Favorite Childhood Book: The Just Grace Series 

As someone who studies the structure of non-profits at school and has worked in childcare and art education-related fields for my entire adult life, New Haven Reads feels like an organization that fits right into my professional wheelhouse. During the year prior to my internship, I attended New Haven Reads programs like the annual spelling bee and browsed the Bristol site Book Bank a few times. When I saw a post on NHR social media that said it was time to hire summer interns, I jumped at the opportunity.

An amazing opportunity it turned out to be! My role as an intern at NHR has perfectly combined all of my interests in literature, art, education, and non-profit work by giving me the opportunity to tutor, run art-related programs, and help out with various other tasks that keep the site running smoothly. Starting my internship in May allowed me to familiarize myself with the tutoring process and various teaching methods while subbing at Bristol. Now that I have been placed at the Willow site, these methods have been invaluable for working with the students I will be tutoring all summer. Seeing students improve their literacy throughout each session and continue putting in the work week after week has been extremely fulfilling and inspiring.

I truly believe that, given the correct care and tailored education, all students can blossom into the powerful people that they are. New Haven Reads is one organization dead set on getting them there! It has been amazing to see how dedicated NHR staff are to reaching the New Haven community, enrolling students, and providing help on an individual basis to each and every one. Being just a small part of the larger organization has been a great honor, and I cannot wait to see what the rest of this summer holds for my students in tutoring and in the Willow St. art clubs!

Thank you  to NHR’s wonderful, dedicated volunteers! You are making our world a better place to be with all you do for New Have Reads. New Haven Reads, our community, and our kiddos appreciate you, more than we can ever say! This week we are highlighting Kiran. Kiran has been a tutor for 3.5 years. Thank you Kiran!

New Haven Reads had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Margie Gillis, founder and president of Literacy How, Incorporated, a non-profit organization that provides professional learning opportunities and coaching for educators on how best to implement evidence-based practices in the classroom. We had a full house of tutors and staff on Saturday learning how to help our older students thrive. Our Education Director Hayley said of the training “What an absolute gift it was to welcome such an expert in the field into our space for this workshop. Margie’s extensive experience and endless knowledge helped our volunteers not only build their toolkits to support our older students, but also build confidence in themselves as tutors.” We always love when Dr. Gillis comes to New Haven Reads!