Poetry is not a luxury. It is a vital necessity of our existence. –Audrey Lorde The WITS mission is to empower Chicago elementary students to discover themselves through reading while … Read More
Four Books about Home and Belonging
Throughout the year, WITS students and mentors build relationships together through books and the power of sharing stories. At the end of each program year, to celebrate the time students … Read More
Teachers Share Why They Like the Rochelle Lee Teacher Award
The Rochelle Lee Teacher Award is a grant for Chicago Public Schools elementary educators. Each year, teachers may apply to receive a classroom library grant. If selected, teachers receive $500 … Read More
WITS Talk: Supporting Newcomers in Chicago Elementary Schools
On January 25th, 2024, WITS presented the first WITS Talk of the new year at FactSet. This WITS Talk focused on how school communities are adapting to the influx of … Read More
Welcoming Migrant Students Into WITS Programs
WITS centers our work around the core value of building community. Every WITS program is its own special community, a place where all students are welcome and mentors and students … Read More
Literacy Programs Help Students Succeed: CEO Tena Latona Speaks at 2023 Blackboard Affair Gala
November 11th marked this year’s annual WITS Blackboard Affair Gala, hosted at The Geraghty. The goal of this event is to raise funding for and promote how literacy programs help … Read More
Literacy Programs Help Students Succeed: Student-to-Mentor Jessica Acevedo Speaks at 2023 Blackboard Affair Gala
WITS Mentor Jessica Acevedo took the stage at The Geraghty on November 11th at WITS annual Blackboard Affair Gala to talk about her uniquely special experience with WITS, and how … Read More
WITS honors Cboe Global Markets at Annual BBA Gala
Alter & Stone Award The Alter and Stone Award celebrates WITS founders Joanne Alter and Marion Stone. The award recognizes volunteers who have dedicated time, energy, and passion to help … Read More
Cultural Diversity In The Classroom
Chicago has been receiving a large influx of migrants from Central America over the past year. In a recent article describing Mayor Johnson’s strategies and response to the increase in … Read More
What Is The Difference Between Balanced Literacy And The Science Of Reading?
In her response to the New York Times article “Taking a Fresh Look at the ABCs of Reading: A revolt over how children are taught to read is sweeping classrooms, school … Read More
