Rotary Club of Port Jefferson (Oct 23, 2018)

Today, we welcomed as visiting speaker Melissa McMullan, a 6th grade reading teacher at JFK Middle School (Comsewogue School District), who talked about her reading project. Melissa explained that many of her students are disadvantaged- victims of a variety of socio-economic problems, including homelessness. She and a colleague were given a huge former art room, where they attempt to provide these youngsters with a "safe space" for 2 hours and 10 minutes each day. Melissa and her co-teacher also provide additional emotional and academic support for these youngsters who need help with their reading and writing. Some have transitioned out of ESL (English as a Second Language) classes into mainstream classes and are still struggling with the basics. Others have never been in ESL, but live in 2 different language worlds, needing to communicate in English in school, but speaking another language at home. The project for which she is raising funds has been devised in order to strengthen her students' reading interest and ability. The teachers offer opportunities to read individually, in pairs, and in small groups. They move around a lot in order to help their students stay focused. Melissa explained that they began the school year by having the students read together and then discuss "How to Survive Middle School". Then they moved on to thematic units- like works of historic fiction- or led small groups or individuals in their exploration of the works of specific authors. Melissa and her colleague work hard to raise interest in and perhaps even love for reading. They would now like to purchase special furniture to create a "Reading Corner"- a cozy place, where the students may take turns leaving their desks to sit and read comfortably for a while. The teachers are buying throw pillows, curtains, and warm lighting to make it inviting and special for the young people, but are seeking help with funding 2 vinyl cubes- soft seating rectangular stools/benches, special shelving units, and the like. They need around $600 to complete their Reader's Corner and have been raising most of their funds via DonorsChoose.org Michael invited Melissa to fill out the request for donations form to be presented at the next Donations Committee meeting. Meanwhile, touched by Melissa's presentation, a few of our members made personal donations. Melissa's project is related to her continuing studies at Hofstra University towards a PhD. She explained that she truly loves what she's been doing for more than 17 years, but her ultimate goal is to teach teachers at the university level.