Open to students in grades K-8. Rescue Readers brings together elementary/middle school students and AWS resident pets for a half hour of literary-based confidence building. Reading aloud forms a special bond between student and pet. It provides enrichment and positive socialization for the animal, it boosts confidence in children, and it gives students a safe space to build a positive association with reading. Students have access to special reading materials and receive reading comprehension guidance from our Humane Educator, as needed. Students are also welcome to bring their own reading materials.

Thank you to Kennebunk Savings for sponsoring Rescue Readers for the 2022-2023 school year. With their generosity, this program is free to attend.

Each Rescue Readers must register in advance for no more than one half-hour session per week. Registration for the upcoming week's sessions opens Mondays by noon. Please register each student individually. Open to students in grades K-8.

AWS Youth Programs follow the RSU21 (Kennebunk) school calendar. If there is a snow day or if the district shifts to remote learning, AWS programs will not take place in-person.