It is Wednesday and the Sailors of Regional Support Organization Pacific Northwest (RSOP NW) are going back to Garfield Elementary School. No, the Navy isn’t recruiting 9-year olds now. They are reading to them. 

In a partnership that has been going on for six months, the students of Stephanie van Driel’s fourth grade class have learned about sea duty and shipboard organization from their neighbors at Naval Station Everett. 

The children ask burning questions such as, “Have you ever shot someone?” (No) and “Do you have Playstations at sea?” (It depends)

In exchange, the students love to show off by reading their favorite books to the Sailors. The “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series is the most popular title with this age group. Engaging discussions with the class verify comprehension and increase vocabulary. 

“I like to encourage the children and help them with their reading and pronunciation. We are there in uniform to represent the Navy and set a good example. They’re great kids and I really like working them,” said Lt.j.g. Dominique Ramirez, RSOP NW. 

“The kids are a lot of fun. If they are not on their best behavior, they will not hesitate to tattle. It’s a lot like the ship,” said Lt.j.g. Joan Wyant, who recently came off of sea duty. 

The program is especially popular with the van Driel, whose 23 students all require various levels of attention based on their abilities. With two or three officers helping out in the classroom, the kids receive more one-on-one interaction.

The service these Sailors provide is increasing the kids’ reading and writing skills, which are a major factor in the upcoming Washing Assessment of Student Learning (WASL). The WASL is used to evaluate the performance of state schools and measure academic accountability. 

While the results of those tests will not be known for several months, one thing is certain. The relationships cultivated during these trips are strengthening community ties and growing civic minded young people right here today.