jena is a black first grade student with special needs that has trouble reading

jena has trouble reading

Jena sitting at her desk in a classroom, looking at a book with a nervous expression, colorful pencils and a new backpack beside her

Jena was excited for her first day in first grade. She loved her new backpack and colorful pencils. But when it was time to read, Jena felt nervous. The letters seemed to dance on the page. She wished she could read like her friends.

Jena's First Day

Jena and a kind girl named Lily sitting together on a bench during recess, Jena looking sad and Lily smiling reassuringly

During recess, Jena met a kind girl named Lily. Lily noticed Jena was sad and asked why. Jena told her about her trouble with reading. Lily smiled and said, 'I can help you!' They decided to meet after school to practice together.

A Special Friend

Jena and Lily sitting on the floor with books around them, Jena looking happy and focused as Lily points at a page

Every day after school, Jena and Lily read together. Lily showed Jena fun ways to remember letters and words. Jena started to feel more confident. She even began to enjoy reading. Their friendship grew as they learned together.

Learning Together

Jena standing in front of the classroom, confidently reading from a book, classmates clapping in the background

One day, Jena’s teacher asked if anyone wanted to read aloud. Jena raised her hand, feeling a little nervous but excited. She read a whole page without stopping! Everyone clapped and cheered. Jena realized that with a little help and practice, she could do anything.