Introducing the DMPS Volunteer Literacy Program

In life, there are many small things that we do that have large, lasting effects on the lives of others. The Des Moines Public School system has a new opportunity to do just that through the foundation of the Volunteer Literacy Program. In approximately hour-long sessions, volunteers will have the chance to meet with elementary students seeking assistance in reaching the literacy skills expected for their age group. According to Kayli Becker, Chief of Staff and Philanthropic Engagement at Des Moines Public Schools, the Volunteer Literacy Program offers community volunteers a chance to make a meaningful impact “one book, one student and one reading session at a time.”

Foundation of the Volunteer Literacy Program

The new program was created in response to the existing volunteer disparity between the 64 schools. Des Moines Public Schools are seeking to provide equitable support to all students in the district. Currently, about 25% of the schools have only 1-5 volunteers each to address the needs of hundreds of students. These volunteers only have the chance to work with a single student at a time, and an increase in volunteers would directly promote the number of students gaining reading assistance and positive literacy outcomes. That is why, as a part of the Des Moines Fellowship Program, we will contribute our own time and efforts at three different schools in need of assistance.

Goals of the Program

This program has been created in response to the current ELA proficiency rates within the DMPS. With increased volunteer support, the DMPS will have another key resource for reaching higher ELA proficiency. The highest priority of the DMPS Board is to raise ELA proficiency from 50.1% (2023) to 65% by 2027. As of Spring 2025, DMPS was at 50.5% proficiency versus the 73% measured statewide. Using FastBridge, a test that monitors literacy data, K-6 students in DMPS were found to be at 47% proficiency while the statewide average was 65%. Consistent assistance from new volunteers in these locations of need will be instrumental for raising the proficiency rates of DMPS students.

How the Community Can Help

Those volunteering will be paired with a student below the required reading level and, with supervision from the teacher, work through a predetermined book with the student. When the student needs assistance sounding out or understanding an unfamiliar word, the volunteer will step in to help make the material more accessible. At the conclusion of every reading session, volunteers send the student back into the classroom one step closer to reaching their age’s reading level. Like many things, the impact of a single reading session will likely not be sufficient enough to bring a student back into the required reading level. With continuous sessions, the students will have the assistance needed to get back on track.

Join the Volunteer Literacy Program

Reading comprehension levels not only have positive impacts on educational success, but lifelong outcomes. If you are looking to join the Des Moines Public Schools’ Volunteer Literacy Program, there are only a few steps you need to take. First, visit SchoolSpring to submit your volunteer application. This can be achieved by selecting the Jobs tab, searching for “Volunteer”, and selecting “Apply for this job!”. When asked about how you would like to volunteer, include that you are looking to help with the Volunteer Literacy Program. While it only takes a few minutes to apply, make sure to apply several weeks prior to when you would like to begin volunteering as it will take time to process your application. Every person can make a positive difference in the lives of DMPS students, one book at a time.

Improving the Greater Des Moines (DSM) community through volunteering and community service is a priority for many. Thanks to community engagement opportunities and leadership connecting local businesses to causes that provide services to improve the region, DSM continues to be a place that provides support for those who live, work and play here.