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.

Rescue Readers is free to attend. Donations to support the program - and all Humane Education programming - are welcomed and appreciated. Thank you!

Rescue Readers must register in advance for no more than one half-hour session per week. Readers (and their waiting parent/guardians/siblings) must  wear face coverings and maintain social distancing from other readers and adopters while inside the Adoption Center. Masks are available for those who come without.

Registration for the upcoming week's sessions opens Mondays by noon.

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.