A longstanding programme in New Brunswick aimed at helping Grade 2 students improve their reading skills abruptly shuts down due to financial difficulties, according to a statement provided to CBC News. The programme, run by Elementary Literacy Inc. (ELI), had been operating for 15 years and included initiatives such as Elementary Literacy Friends (ELF), which provided tutoring to struggling students after school. Despite receiving significant funding from the New Brunswick government, ELI faced challenges and ultimately decided to cease operations. The closure affected numerous staff, volunteers, and students, with estimates suggesting around 20 staff, 300 volunteers, and 200 students were impacted. While the exact reasons for the shutdown remain unclear, issues such as funding, changes in teaching methods, and challenges associated with the pandemic may have played a role. Efforts to obtain further information from ELI’s board members were largely unsuccessful, and the closure has left many disappointed.
