Listos began in May 2012 with funding from a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant, seeking to address educational readiness gaps for Latino children. Data for the Oregon’s largest school district showed that only 55 percent of Latino children were ready for school compared to 83 percent of white children. “For many children, the Listos sessions had provided them with a very positive first schooling experience. It instilled in them an excitement for reading and learning that continued long after the sessions concluded. At the same time, their parents learned more about their own roles in their children’s education.” — Teacher

Listos includes culturally relevant teaching strategies and activities for children and adults congruent with Latino culture and are easy to incorporate into everyday life. The curriculum draws from the Every Child Ready to Read® @ Your Library pre-reading skills framework and early literacy research. Parents attend an orientation before the 12-week program. Family-centered stories and experiences are acknowledged and connected to new materials. Facilitators’ respectful and caring relationships with participants create a welcoming and engaging learning environment, supporting intergenerational transfer of language, traditions and culture. Listos concludes with a graduation celebration embracing Latino culture and members of the extended family.

Through the LSTA grant, Education Northwest evaluated Listos (September 2015–May 2016) and found: 100 percent of families increased awareness of ways to prepare children for kindergarten. Ninety two percent of families increased positive reading practices. Ninety percent of children increased interest in books. 100 percent of children demonstrated increased letters recognition and could write their names. Seventy percent of families now attend other educational community programs. Seventy families enrolled and 61 families completed the program. 1,626 children and adults attended. Demand for the program remains strong, with 70 to 100 families on the waitlist at anytime. Education Northwest will continue outcome-based evaluation through the LSTA grant.