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In this era of MTV and Xbox, kids may be more prone to pick up a remote control rather than a book. Staff Writer Eunice Lee of the Desert Dispatch reports on a literacy program that teaches African-American parents tactics that make reading to their children educational and fun.

BARSTOW, CALIF. -- Former teacher Dixie Fite is spending part of her retirement volunteering in the classroom. But this time, her students aren't school-aged children -- they're parents like Miyonna Jones.

Jones was one of several parents who attended a literacy program spearheaded by Fite that aims at getting African-American parents actively involved in reading to their kids and sharpening their student's analytical skills in preparation for state tests.

To that end, Fite is doling out stacks of glossy new books to parents -- for free. During hour-long sessions, she coaches parents on what kinds of questions to ask students as they read. The parents also review songs and poems included in instructional binders, which help make reading fun and stimulating for kids, said Fite.

Jones said she tried out one of the tips she picked up from Fite afterward at home. While reading with her son James, a first grader at Henderson Elementary School, Jones reached an exciting part of the story, and then closed the book. Her son pleadingly protested. Jones was testing out Fite's strategy of drawing out suspense as a means to help cultivate a love for books. The next day after school, Jones' son came through the door and wanted to immediately continue the story.

"I want kids to love reading and I want parents to have the tools to help their children love to read," said Fite. "That is the key that opens up many doors."

Principal Jan Rhoads of Henderson Elementary School agrees that parents play a critical role in unlocking opportunities.

"Parents [are] being trained in how to present a book" to a child, said Rhoads. "That's invaluable."

Fite, who spent 38 years teaching second grade at Henderson, initiated the six-session program to help students bone up on reading, vocabulary, summary and analysis skills.
The program focuses on books that celebrate African-American culture and heritage, as well as famous figures in the community.

"We're taking this route [through] their culture to get them to read," said Fite.

For the complete story, visit the Desert Dispatch.