Family Literacy

The Saint John Learning Exchange is proud to launch our new program “Reading Rocks”. Reading Rocks was successfully launched January 25, 2008 at Hazen White St Francis with approximately 60 children in attendance. Along with Learning Exchange staff member, Darlene Porter – ventriloquist & puppeteer, magicians Kurt Fuerniss and Ed Van Oorschot joined us to make the launch celebrating Family Literacy Day even more exciting.

Reading Rocks strives to promote life long learning and love of literacy in children and will encourage children to make time each day to spend with a favorite book.

Learning Exchange staff member, Darlene Porter is a skilled ventriloquist who uses her puppets to stress the importance of reading through humour and life lessons. This puppet program is a fun and interactive way for children to see the value in education and it will also show clear ways to ask for extra help when struggling in school.

Our next show took place at The Saint John Free Public Library on March 4, 2008. A contest was held in the weeks previous to find a name for our new book puppet. Caleb, age 11, was awarded the prize for his imaginative name “Paige Turner”.  Caleb was awarded a gift card from Coles Bookstore.

Stay tuned for our next exciting show!

Reading Rocks is proudly supported by The Greater Saint John Community Foundation.

Homework School

Homework School is a program, which has been in operation at the Saint John Learning Exchange since 1991. It provides a free service for students in elementary and middle school.

Reflective of the Learning Exchange's philosophy, homework coaches aim to instill good study habits and self-confidence in a student's own abilities. The majority of students need help in math, reading and comprehension skills. However, other subjects such as English, Social Studies, Science and Health are covered.

Time is spent helping students create good overall study habits and organizational skills. The program also provides a comfortable and supportive learning environment.

• Wednesday evenings, 4-7pm
• A qualified coach provides friendly support and guidance for students in grades 1 –- 8
• Free help in Math, English, Social Studies, and Science
• Small group setting
• Evokes confidence & competence
• Enhances the work being done in the classroom
• Healthy snack provided

Homework School is generously supported by Aliant.