Our Story

In 2009, a group of pastors met with superintendents from several Central Texas school districts to ask a simple but important question: What are the greatest challenges facing your schools? With guidance from Susan Dawson of E3 Alliance – Education Equals Economics, they identified third-grade literacy as a critical focus. Research shows that children who read on grade level by third grade are far more likely to graduate high school prepared for future success.

That same year, the foundation for Education Connection was established. During the 2010–11 school year, the first pilot program launched at Naumann Elementary in Leander ISD.

What began as a shared vision has grown into a regional movement. Today, more than 1,200 volunteers read with over 2,500 students across 19 school districts in Central Texas. Each week, volunteers invest just 30 minutes, meeting one-on-one with elementary students to build literacy skills, confidence, and connection.

With more than 250 elementary schools in the Greater Austin area, the need remains tremendous. Education Connection partners with local organizations, churches, businesses, and public schools to equip volunteers who walk alongside students on their literacy journey—supporting educators and strengthening communities one child at a time.

As the program continues to grow, there is an opportunity for YOU to make a meaningful impact on a child’s future.