Celebration Days
Reading Day (April 19th, 2024) Volunteer Schedule and Map
Fill out this Celebration Day 2024 Volunteer Registration Form if you are interested in volunteering with Maryland Reading Day (Friday, April 19, 7am- 2pm) and Maryland Math Day (Friday, May 3, 7am- 2pm). *note if you are interested in a specific leader role please email mdmentorcorps@umd.edu for more information
Maryland Reading Day
The Maryland Reading Program (formerly America Reads) is a literacy tutoring program for first and second grade students in Prince George's County Public Schools. University of Maryland mentors work one-on-one with students twice a week, providing extra instruction and support in reading and writing. All mentors receive extensive training in Reading Recovery and general tutoring methods.
This year, Maryland Reading Day is on April 19th in the Stamp Student Union. Volunteers have the opportunity to participate in small group reading and facilitate afternoon literacy activities. A book is selected as the theme of the day and students engage in literacy and creative activities that reflect the content or message of the book. This year's book is Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev. Past books have included The Good Egg by Jory John, Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña, Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin.
Maryland Math Celebration Day
Maryland Math Program (formerly America Counts) is a University of Maryland based program whose goal is to make sure that every child in the United States is able to read independently and well as well as solve and understand the basis of mathematical concepts by the end of fourth grade. The program was established in 1996 with the help of former University of Maryland President William E. Kirwan.
In an attempt to achieve this objective, we at Maryland Math host an annual Maryland Math Celebration Day. This year, Maryland Math Celebration Day is on May 3rd. Various students from selected Prince George’s County elementary schools affiliated with this program are invited to the University of Maryland to participate in a tour that not only engages them in mathematical activities but also shows them some of the college experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Celebration Days
What is Maryland Mentor Corps?
The mission of Maryland Mentor Corps, a partnership between the University of Maryland and Prince George's County Public Schools, is to provide a high quality mentoring program that enriches learning opportunities for both college and elementary school students. University of Maryland students work in local elementary schools to provide additional support and instruction in subjects of reading or mathematics.
What are the special events?
Our special event days bring our students and families to campus for a day of interactive and educational activities. These events are for our students to celebrate their participation in our programs, interact with college students, experience a college campus and engage in activities.
· Maryland Reads Day – April 19th from 7am—2pm (1st & 2nd graders)
· Maryland Counts Day - May 3rd from 7am—2pm (4th graders)
What does a volunteer do for an event?
Depending on the event and volunteer shift, you may work with students in reading/mathematics activities or help with logistical set-up and clean-up. The online sign-up form gives more information about duties associated with each day and shift.
How do I get credit for my organization for volunteering?
When you sign up to volunteer online, you can enter your group on the form so we can give you credit. If you need a letter verifying your participation, you must request it within 30 days after the event.
What is my time commitment?
You will register for specific shifts for the events. You are expected to commit to the full-time of the shift you sign up for. All shifts are 2-3 hours long.
Are there any requirements to volunteer?
You must be a University of Maryland student or staff/faculty to volunteer.
What should I wear?
We suggest wearing jeans and a light shirt with closed-toe shoes. At check-in, you will be given a volunteer shirt to wear, so you may choose to change into this shirt or wear it over your shirt. We request that you not wear flip flops, sandals, inappropriate or revealing clothing.
If I sign up with a friend, can we work together?
You may be signed up for different shifts and different stations, so we cannot guarantee you will be able to work together. However, you will have many volunteers to work with at your station!
If I sign up with a group, can we work together?
If you are signing up as part of a student group, you are able to list the name of your student group on your sign-up form. We will do our best to place student groups together.
Do I have to pack my own food?
We would suggest eating before your time shift as you will be engaging with students in activities throughout the day. If you are volunteering during the lunch shift, we will have lunch available. If you are not a volunteer for the lunch shift, you should bring a small snack for the day.
How long is each shift?
Shifts are two to three hours. You are able to sign up for individual or multiple shifts. We expect you to commit to the complete time of the shift you sign up for.
Where do I go at the beginning of my volunteer shift?
You need to first check in and sign in for your shift. At check-in you will receive your volunteer shirt, a schedule, a map of campus, and your assigned school and their color. Check-in locations for each event are:
· Maryland Reads Day – Stamp Colony Ballroom 2203
· Maryland Counts Day - Stamp (Room TBD)
How will I recognize other volunteers?
Volunteers will be given Celebration Day volunteer shirts. Elementary students and their chaperones will wear colored shirts that designate their school.
How do I know what jobs I need to do?
Each shift has a different set of expectations. The primary jobs are set-up, greeting, literacy or math activities with the children, lunch set-up, and departure. You will be given an information sheet for your shift with expectations for your particular job.
If I finish one job, where do I go to get another one?
If you have completed your assigned task and are still at the same station, you should ask an office staff or team leader if there is anything else you can assist with.
What should I talk about with the students?
You should start by introducing yourself to the student(s) you are working with. Ask them about their name, the school they attend, and how their day is going so far. If you are not occupied with an activity, you can ask about their favorite hobbies, TV or movies, books or school subjects! Keep your topics general and broad and show interest and enthusiasm in speaking to the students. Feel free to talk about your experience as a college student at UMD, but remember to keep to age-appropriate topics.
What do I do when I complete my shift?
Sign out sheets will be available at each event. Remember to sign out before leaving.