Books, Bots, and Beyond: A Bold Literacy Program Puts Western New York at the Center of a National Movement

Books, Bots, and Beyond: A Bold Literacy Partnership Puts Western New York at the Center of a National Movement

Buffalo, NY – A game-changing new initiative is taking root in Western New York, aiming to dramatically improve reading outcomes for K–8 students through a dynamic collaboration between the IMSE Foundation, SOAR LLC., and the National Literacy Coalition. The newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) launches the Books, Bots, and Beyond regional literacy program, one that positions Buffalo and surrounding communities as ground zero for a national model in literacy transformation.

Stage one of this two-year expansion roll out, running through the 2025–2027 academic years, will deploy IMSE (The Institute for Multi-Sensory Education) certified after-school tutors, STEM enrichment, and data-driven interventions to support all students across the region. This a major investment in Western New York’s future and a powerful signal that literacy is not a luxury—it’s a right.

WNY’s Moment to Lead

Suzanne Pollutro, CEO of SOAR LLC., emphasized the regional importance:

“Buffalo is more than a test site—it’s a trailblazer. The heart, grit, and community spirit of Western New York make it the perfect launchpad for a program that can change lives. We’re here to build something that works then, bringing that impact to the rest of the country.“

Krista K. Gauthier, Executive Director of the IMSE Foundation, speaks to the power of this partnership:

“The IMSE Foundation is honored to be partnered with SOAR and NLC to provide impactful literacy instruction and STEM enrichment, empowering communities and fostering a culture of life-long learning and educational equity. This dynamic partnership will forge a path to leveling the playing field for ALL students and provide the critical training needed for our teachers on the front lines of the literacy crisis.”

From Buffalo Public Schools to surrounding districts, the program will empower local educators with IMSE-certified training, recruit and support community-based tutors, and engage families in a way that puts literacy growth at the forefront of regional progress.

What Makes SOAR Different?

• One-on-One Literacy Intervention & Acceleration using research-backed, multisensory techniques.

• Educator Training & Certification in partnership with IMSE, empowering teachers to bring Science of Reading methods into their classrooms.
  

• Individualized instruction tailored specifically for each student’s needs.

• Plans to expand across the region and into other states in the 2025-26 school year.

“We’re not just teaching kids to read. We’re restoring their confidence, reigniting their joy in learning, and giving families hope,” said Pollutro. “We’re also equipping educators with the tools they need to truly make a difference.”

SOAR leverages the nationally recognized IMSE curriculum, aligning instruction with the latest research in cognitive science, phonological awareness, and structured literacy. As part of its growth strategy, SOAR is actively seeking IMSE-trained educators and literacy specialists to join its expanding team.

Calling the Bills Mafia: Let’s Get Loud for Literacy

To the Bills Mafia—this is your call to action. You’ve shown the world what this community is capable of. Now, it’s time to rally behind our kids.
Share the word, get involved, and help us build a future where every Western New York student can read, thrive, and lead.

We’re calling on local organizations, schools, and donors to get on board and be part of something historic. From funding certified tutors to sponsoring events, your involvement will directly shape students’ lives right here at home.

Media, Let’s Talk

Press coverage is key to bringing this movement to life. Media outlets across WNY are encouraged to connect with our team for interviews, classroom visits, and community events throughout the pilot program.

Let’s spotlight the voices of educators, students, and families—and show the rest of the country what Western New York is made of.

Press & Partner Inquiries:
Email: media@soartutoring.com

Books, Bots, and Beyond is a regional literacy pilot launched by the IMSE Foundation, SOAR LLC., and the National Literacy Coalition. Running through 2027, the program is designed to serve as a national model, starting with Western New York and the Washington, DC region.