Christal Reedy, a native of Rockingham County, is the Tutor and Literacy Programs Manager at Skyline Literacy since September of 2020. She has been an educator for her entire career after graduating from Eastern Mennonite University undergraduate and master’s graduate programs, as well as recently acquiring an Education Specialist degree from Liberty University. She has taught high school Spanish, ESL, and special education for over 20 years. While she loves being an educator, she wanted an administrative role, which is why she accepted the position at Skyline Literacy, which allows her to combine her love for teaching with educational administration.
The first thing that stood out to Christal at Skyline Literacy was the kind and caring staff who worked with the adult learners of the Harrisonburg and Rockingham communities. She was amazed by the dedication of some of the volunteer educators who have been with Skyline for more than 5 years. “The dedication of long-term tutors is essential to the success of our programs”, Christal says. She loves seeing the relationships built between the tutors and students, as well as the improvement of literacy rates: “It is thrilling to be part of a successful educational program like Skyline”. She believes that people can learn, no matter what age or demographic.
The gratification of Christal’s job is what brings her to work every day. She loves seeing the success of students who have passed their U.S. citizenship test, improved their literacy levels, or are working to reach their educational potential. “The feedback and gratitude are the best part of my job”, Christal states. She goes on to say, “How rewarding it is to give back to the community, helping people improve literacy, which gives them the skills to be able to read to their children, engage in community and civic events, and be active in the workplace.” The basic tasks of daily living, that we so often take for granted, like going to a doctor’s appointment or completing a banking transaction, can be very challenging for someone who does not speak, write, or read the English language.
Skyline’s staff works tirelessly to provide customizable programs for their students in a variety of subjects featured in their programs. Christal was amazed by the supportive volunteer tutors and the students’ willingness to learn. Skyline redefines the traditional classroom by providing daytime and evening classes, online- and in-person classes, flexible scheduling for one-on-one tutoring, and a needs-based priority of the students. This allows for tutors and students to meet together amidst their busy lives. Christal reflects on the situation, “Many of Skyline’s students have many children and multiple jobs, so flexibility is key to their success in learning”. She encourages tutors to be flexible and dedicated to the students who want to learn, but do not always have the time or resources.
Christal says that the most challenging part of her job is maintaining student and volunteer retention rates, despite the flexibility that Skyline offers. Many people want to give their time or take time to be educated, but do not follow through with it. Nevertheless, Christal works persistently to encourage students and educators to take time for learning by adapting personalized strategies and opportunities for students and educators alike. She concludes by quoting James Matthew Barrie, “Those who bring sunshine to others cannot keep it from themselves.”
If you are interested in volunteering with Skyline Literacy, please reach out to Christal Reedy at creedy@skylineliteracy.org or by calling 540-433-0505. “We are always in need of volunteers, and it is a very gratifying experience for all involved! We are happy to place you where you are needed that will fit your strengths, while also benefiting our students. Thank you!” – Christal Reedy