Celebrating 10 Years of Read Right at Thornwell
October is National Book Month — a time to celebrate the joy of reading and the doors that books can open for all of us.
At Thornwell, this is also an incredible opportunity to recognize that Thornwell’s Read Right program is celebrating its 10th year!
For a decade, Read Right at Thornwell has helped children strengthen their reading skills, build confidence, and discover a love for reading. Books can become an adventure. A place to discover something new.
Books can be more than just books. They can be magic.
A book can take a child somewhere they have never been. It can introduce them to characters who feel like friends, spark curiosity about the world, or remind them of the people and places they love most.
Read Right Builds Confidence
Read Right served 104 individuals in 2025, each with their own goals. Under the leadership of Director Rhonda Cantrell and a dedicated team of tutors, students receive consistent, individualized support designed to help them become stronger, more confident readers.
For Cate, that journey took time. She initially came to Read Right because, in her words, “they are making me.” Cate was three grade levels behind in reading comprehension; her tutor compassionately worked with her despite her indifference. Her sessions were interrupted due to changes in her living situation, but when she returned to Thornwell and to Read Right, she began sessions again – this time with eagerness and determination. She went on to advance to the highest reading level of the program.
For Max, becoming a stronger reader meant becoming a more confident student. He once dreaded school and worried about being called on in class because he struggled to answer questions. Through Read Right, he gained a grade level in reading — and confidence in himself.
And for Bowen, finding the right story made all the difference. A love of superheroes became a bridge to reading. As he worked with his tutor to understand the meaning behind the words on the page, his reading comprehension soared, placing him in the top 1% nationwide for growth.
These are just a few glimpses of what happens when kids are given the tools, encouragement, and opportunity to grow.
Celebrating the Next Chapter
As we celebrate 10 years of Read Right, we celebrate every student who kept going. Every tutor who showed up. Every caring adult who encouraged a student to try again, who helped make these moments possible.
We are also celebrating two members of our team: Cindy Bayne, who completed training to become a certified Read Right Trainer, and Meg Marley, who completed training to become a certified Read Right Tutor. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and their continued investment in helping others grow.
This National Book Month, pick up a book. Visit your local library. Read aloud with a child. Remember the story that made you fall in love with reading.
And if you know someone who could benefit from Read Right — or if you would like to help make this program possible for others — we invite you to learn more and get involved. Hear from Read Right Director, Rhonda Cantrell, in this new video.
Because books are more than books. They open doors. They build confidence. They create possibilities.