Madison Elementary School’s strong partnership with The Vineyard Church has resulted in a unique and fun idea for students to build literacy skills.
The Vineyard Church donated 15 reading tents to Madison and its students on Tuesday. The tents, known as “Cougar Caves” at Madison, are used by students for independent reading. Vineyard Church members are actively involved in literacy programs at Madison, and teacher Barb Randolph, who is also a member of The Vineyard Church, said the church’s partnership with the school is greatly appreciated.
“Partnerships flourish even in the midst of pandemics,” Randolph said in reference to COVID-19. “Although the church group was not able to send adult mentors to the school this year to work individually with students, members still wanted to make connections and be a blessing to Cougar students. The loss of literacy skills was a great concern for Madison Principal Andrea Trio and the staff. An idea was formulated around the perceived regression in literacy skills, and the idea for ‘Cougar Caves’ was born.”
Randolph said the “caves” are a great place for students in each classroom to read and improve and increase independent reading skills. She said Vineyard volunteers used their carpentry skills to build the frames, and seamstresses worked diligently with colorful paw print fabric to create “Cougar Caves” for ravenous cubs at Madison to hide away in their classrooms to devour good books.
Trio said students, staff members and the Madison community are so grateful for The Vineyard Church’s contributions to the school.
“Vineyard is an amazing partner,” she said. “Over the years, they have given so much in terms of resources, and that includes materials and financial contributions. What may be the most important contribution is human resources. Vineyard Church members serve mentors at Madison. They’re re always reaching out to contribute.”
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