Jenny Chavez Valencia revives reading buddies program for Newark Memorial students

The City of Newark's Library Liaison Meeting on April 28, 2025, highlighted the successful revival of the Reading Buddies program, spearheaded by new staff member Jenny Chavez Valencia. This initiative aims to support young readers who are struggling with their literacy skills.

Chavez Valencia, who previously volunteered in the program during her high school years, recognized the need for dedicated reading support after the program was merged with homework help in the new library. With her experience as an early literacy specialist, she has been able to provide one-on-one assistance to kindergartners and first graders, helping them improve their reading abilities.

Currently, the Reading Buddies program serves six students identified as being at least two grade levels behind in reading. The program has also enlisted three students from Newark Memorial Puente to assist in these efforts. Participants are engaging in reading sessions using whiteboards, and early results show a positive shift in attitudes towards reading, with students increasingly eager to check out books.

In addition to the Reading Buddies program, Chavez Valencia is also leading a smaller reading club that includes nine students, further expanding literacy support within the community. The meeting underscored the importance of targeted educational programs in fostering a love for reading among young learners in Newark.