 |  |
When Rotarians in the Antigua Sundown Club became aware that kindergarteners learning to read needed a boost in their phonics development, they called their long-time partners at Lehigh University to see what could be done to help. Lehigh staff member and Bethlehem Morning Star Rotarian Bill Hunter, who has taken his students on a dozen service trips to Antigua & Barbuda, was referred through Rotary connections to Dr. Debbie Matz, an experienced reading specialist.
Through a financial collaboration between both Rotary clubs, Dr. Matz traveled to Antigua with the Lehigh group in 2022 to begin a pilot program by making classroom observations, engaging in inquiring conversations with teachers and principals, and facilitating a professional development session at one of the targeted primary schools. A need for additional instruction in phonemic awareness was determined and an appropriate and affordable supplemental curriculum was selected for kindergarten reading instruction. Following a successful first run, both Rotary clubs again sponsored Dr. Matz’s travel to Antigua in May to expand the reach of the pilot program by training Kindergarten teachers and principals in foundational early literacy skills and the Heggerty Phonemic Awareness program at two of the targeted primary schools.
Impressed with the outcomes of the pilot program and recognizing the potential to deliver the curriculum nationwide, Antigua & Barbuda Minister of Education Daryll Matthew offered his appreciation to Rotarians in both nations. “We appreciate the efforts of both Rotary clubs in advocating for and supporting this educational advancement. Your dedication to improving the literacy and overall educational outcomes of our young learners is invaluable. The partnership between our organizations exemplifies the positive impact that collaborative efforts can have on the educational sector,” according to Education Minister Matthew.
Bill Hunter shares this message with us. “After 13 service trips to this beautiful island destination in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Antigua Sundown, I have come to know, and cherish, the relationships I have built with the principals and teachers. They are truly dedicated to giving the children of Antigua a great education and I am so excited that two Rotary clubs have found a critical means to support their efforts. Antigua is my second home, and the people there are an important part of my extended family.”