Idaho Literacy Explorers was born from the need to make a difference in the local Caldwell, Idaho community. Because reading is a foundation in education, and education is a foundation for success, increasing literacy rates is vital to improving the health and happiness within our community.

 One great way to master a skill is to teach it.

Idaho Literacy Explorers pairs young elementary school aged readers with students from Caldwell High School, for a shared reading experience. While the younger student benefits from the added reading time, the older student practices leadership skills, engages in the local community, and has a memorable service experience.

Idaho Literacy Explorers is the work of two Masters students at Boise State University.

Maria is a graduate from Boise State University and is currently seeking a Masters Degree in Bilingual Education. English is her second language and she has experienced the importance  that literacy plays in both her first language and second language. She has volunteered in the Mentoring Program since 2008. She believes that through education children have the opportunity to discover their strengths and their weakness, and that in turn those experiences will help them find out their passions and dreams. Maria firmly believes  literacy is the first and most important step towards success in living out those dreams.

Karla is currently enrolled in the Literacy department, and feels passionate about empowering children through education. She previously worked in not for profits, with both the homeless community and those affected by poverty, and quickly noticed that there was a common thread of low literacy levels within the members of those communities. She is committed to improving reading motivation in order to combat these societal issues.

You can reach Maria and Karla at

idaholiteracyexplorers@gmail.com