Quick Bites: APIE’s Top Reads This Summer
Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change by Joseph Grenny
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
The Places That Scare You by Pema Chödrön
The Martian by Andy Weir
Summer Sisters by Judy Blume
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen
The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
The Essential Rumi by Jalal al-Din Rumi
Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling
Donor Spotlight: Roger Edmondson
Serving APIE as both donor and volunteer, Roger Edmondson has earned the distinguished title of APIE Ambassador. Although Roger is a successful Business, Sales and Marketing Consultant, he admits that completing his college degree would have provided an easier path to success. He has worked with youth in some capacity for over 35 years and believes education is “the real key to a vibrant society and productive life.” Education is definitely a central focus of his family. Not only does Roger volunteer weekly with APIE’s Classroom Coaching program, but his wife teaches at Austin Community College while his son is an AISD elementary school teacher.
Roger believes the most rewarding part of being an APIE donor is the reward of helping children who are ready and willing to learn. He remembers being an eager student himself who once read 100 books over summer break. He encourages students to continue working hard over the summer to achieve something they will remember for a lifetime. Roger is appreciative of the work APIE does to help students reach their goals and recognizes the need for support from the community to provide a quality education experience. Roger understands the challenges facing education today but believes, “it is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness. If we can light enough candles we can illuminate the lives of the next generations of children.” To join Roger in supporting APIE students and teachers, please visit our donation page here.
Volunteer Spotlight: Kathy Garland
Kathy Garland is a retired Accountant for the City of Austin and a current APIE volunteer. For the past seven years, she has dedicated her time as a Classroom Coach for APIE’s 2nd grade reading program, and says her favorite part about her work is witnessing the progress each student makes throughout the year. “One boy started the year far below grade level; he was at beginning kindergarten level. By the end of the year he was right on grade level. He worked very hard and made tremendous progress.”
Occupation:
Retired Accountant for the City of Austin
What is your favorite part about volunteering?
Seeing the progress made in one school year. In 2nd grade they become such good readers and understand the content, not just reading the words.
How has education played a role in your own life and career?
I always loved school. Education was important in my family. It was expected that you would go to college.
Would APIE have benefitted you as a student?
I was very shy in school. The APIE program of working in small groups would have given me the confidence to speak up in class.
What has been your proudest moment as an APIE volunteer?
One boy started the year far below grade level, he was at beginning kindergarten level. By the end of the year he was right on grade level. He worked very hard and made tremendous progress. The teacher was committed and well-liked by the kids. They would do everything she asked. I’m sure he wanted to please her.
During the summer, APIE’s Program Coordinators take actions to ensure the upcoming school year is even better than the last for both our volunteers and our students. They improve curriculum and training, organize hands-on and interactive activities for you and your students, and contact local businesses to begin recruiting volunteers.Pictured are APIE’s program coordinators who were awarded a Certificate of Recognition for their work at Webb Middle School this year.
APIE After School (Upcoming Events)
This summer, we’re taking advantage of everything Austin has to offer. Do you enjoy live music? Live theater? Spending time with fellow APIE volunteers? Join us at any of the following events. We’d love to see you this summer!
- July 17 – Hairspray @ Zilker Summer Musical at 8:30 p.m.
- August 5 – Max Frost and Jamestown Revival @ Blues on the Green at 8 p.m.
Summer is in full swing at APIE. Become part of the momentum with your gift of $15, $25, or $35 in preparation for next school year. We’re busy making it the best ever, and you can help. Donate now!