University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Launches Stritch Family Literacy Center to Address Literacy Challenges
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) is set to inaugurate the Stritch Family Literacy Center on January 27, 2024, on its campus, continuing a legacy of over 80 years dedicated to improving literacy among students. This newly established center is a transformation of the previous Cardinal Stritch Literacy Center, which was one of the first programs of its kind in the United States.
The Stritch Family Literacy Center aims to provide specialized support for students facing literacy challenges, welcoming 24 elementary and middle school students for its inaugural spring session. The program focuses on creating individualized learning plans, tailoring support through weekly private tutoring sessions led by master instructors. These educators, many of whom are experienced faculty or educators from local schools, employ evidence-based methods to address the diverse needs of their students.
Recent assessments highlighted a concerning trend in the Milwaukee area, where data from the National Center for Education Statistics revealed that approximately 88% of fourth-grade students scored below the standard literacy proficiency levels for their age group. “It’s just not acceptable,” stated Mary Kellner, president of the board for the Stritch Family Literacy Center. She emphasized the varying degrees of literacy challenges faced by children, underlining the need for focused, one-on-one assistance for those who struggle significantly.
The center distinguishes itself from other literacy programs through its rigorous training for master instructors, all of whom hold advanced degrees in education. Under the guidance of UWM’s School of Education, these instructors receive specialized training aimed at effective tutoring strategies. Kellner emphasized that the depth of the program, which includes thorough assessments to identify specific skill gaps—such as phonics or reading comprehension—sets it apart from other tutoring initiatives in the region.
The transition of the literacy program from Cardinal Stritch University to UWM has involved collaboration between faculty and a dedicated group of volunteers. This strategic move offers a new home for the program while ensuring continuity in the quality of services provided. UWM’s Children’s Learning Center serves as the new venue, allowing young students the opportunity to engage with the university environment.
Tina Freiburger, dean of UWM’s School of Education, expressed her enthusiasm regarding this partnership, noting its reflection of the university’s commitment to community welfare. “This partnership reflects the very best of what a public university can be,” Freiburger remarked, highlighting the initiative’s potential to expand access to high-quality literacy support for local children and families.
The Stritch Family Literacy Center, through its dedicated approach and commitment to individualized learning, seeks to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the literacy skills of students in Milwaukee. Members of the media are invited to tour the center by appointment by contacting Kristine Lize at kcmarver@uwm.edu to coordinate their visits, further fostering community engagement and awareness of this vital program.
