Yes, I Can Read
The United Way TCI “Yes, I Can Read” intervention program is specifically designed for students in Grade 2. This initiative aims to be implemented in four government elementary schools across Providenciales. The primary goal of the program is to enroll 300 Grade 2 students for in-school reading intervention. This pullout program is facilitated by experienced literacy teachers who focus on assisting students struggling with reading and comprehension difficulties.
The “Yes, I Can Read” program has established resource rooms in each of the participating schools. It aligns with the No Child Left Behind policy initiative launched by the government of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), which strives to meet the diverse needs of students with special requirements. By reaching out to students with lower reading skills, stemming from various psychological or physical challenges, the program contributes to the national goal of inclusive education. Additionally, it provides essential support to special education teachers at each school involved in the initiative, utilizing engaged volunteer assistants.
The program commenced in 2019; however, it was only able to evaluate students' progress before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic placed excessive strain on the education system in the Turks and Caicos Islands, resulting in many children being unable to attend school in 2020. Consequently, this has exacerbated reading deficiencies, with some children aged as old as 7 years having their first opportunity to participate in formal schooling.
Objectives of the Yes, I Can Read Initiative:
- To assist struggling Grade 2 students in improving their reading skills, enabling them to read at grade-level within one year.
- To support students in sustaining their motivation, cultivating stronger independent skills, and achieving greater academic progress through reading tutorials.
- To enable at-risk students, as well as those with learning disabilities, to enhance their reading abilities to the extent that they can succeed in their academic endeavors and acquire the foundational reading skills necessary for high school and post-secondary education.
This program stands as a vital resource for fostering literacy and inclusivity within the educational landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Sponsor A Child
The Youth HELP Foundation, in proud partnership with United Way TCI and the public school system of the Turks and Caicos Islands, supports the “Yes, I Can Read” literacy intervention program—an initiative that is transforming the futures of struggling young readers.
This targeted program provides Grade 2 students with specialized, one-on-one reading support from experienced literacy teachers and trained teaching assistants. The goal is clear: to help every child read at grade level within one year, build confidence and independence, and lay the essential foundation for academic success through high school and beyond.
Many of these students face not only academic hurdles but also personal and learning challenges that demand intensive, personalized instruction. That’s why your support matters. While general donations to the program are always welcome, you can make an even greater impact by sponsoring a child directly.
With a contribution of $3,360, you will fund a full 42-week reading intervention for one child—providing them with the consistent, focused support they need to overcome reading difficulties and unlock their potential.