Most kids in Salem elementary schools struggle to read.

That remains true even after students showed slight improvement in annual state tests in the spring. State data released last month showed three in four third graders in the Salem-Keizer School District remain behind the reading level expected for their grade.

After the data was published, Salem Reporter asked readers what they wanted to know about the district’s test scores and efforts to improve.

Several said the same thing: how can we help?

This guide was compiled based on suggestions from educators and local organizations promoting literacy and working in schools.

Volunteer as a reading tutor

Several Salem and nearby elementary schools have programs through SMART Reading , a Portland-based nonprofit that operates volunte

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