Rearing2Read Programs
Rearing2Read proudly offers a range of programs for different groups of learners, all with the same goal: to increase confidence and improve reading literacy skills.
Literacy programs are for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Through after-school programs, book clubs, summer camps, and special events, children build reading confidence and literacy skills alongside horses in a fun, supportive farm environment where learning comes to life.
After School Sessions
Summer Camps
Virtual Field Trips
Open Houses
Workshops
Reading literacy programs in Hillsborough
Our main our programs take place at Rouxtano Farm in Hillsborough unless otherwise noted. Rouxtano is home to Craig and Tonya LaTorre, along with their five horses, a mini pony, a mini donkey, five cats, ducks, rabbits, and chickens.
Rearing2Read operates on a tuition-free model. Each program has a suggested donation tuition, which is encouraged. However, students in need will not be turned away based on their ability to pay.
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About
After-school sessions are groups of up to four learners. Learners will participate in reading activities and games with horses and other farm animals. These sessions take place in themed formats, including book club groups like Confident Reader’s Book Club and Horsemanship Book Club.
This course is for readers who have never participated in a Rearing2Read program. Learners are dropped off at 4 PM and picked up at 5:15 PM.
Tuition
In 2026, the recommended donation for after-school sessions is $125 per program/participant.
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About
Summer camps are for learners who need or want a session for learning new skills and making new friends. Camps are held in themed sessions, including Big Siblings Camp, Summer “Writing” Camp, and our first Maine Camp coming Fall of 2026.
Tuition
In 2026, the recommended donation for camps is $275. We highly encourage families to make a $30-$40 donation when signing up for summer camp to cover the cost of camp supplies.
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Virtual field trips are conducted through Zoom and give a "virtual" glimpse into the farm as a classroom. Ali will Zoom in with the help of a hooved friend to teach a learning session with your class!
To learn more, contact Ali at president@rearing2read.us.
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Open houses are for learners and their families to attend to meet Ali and learn more about the program. Attendees arrive at the farm and meet in the arena for opening remarks. Afterward, they rotate through literacy stations.
Rearing2Read has run open houses for organizations like Hillsborough Elementary School's PTA, Boys and Girls Club, and many more.
Interested in running an Open House for your school or organization? Contact president@rearing2read.us for more info!
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Workshops run on Saturdays in the fall and spring. They are one-day events open to past participants of the Rearing2Read after-school programs.
Each workshop has a reading theme!
Upcoming Programs:
Confident Reader’s Book Club
This program is designed for students ages 8–11 who experience reading anxiety or struggle with reading aloud. It aims to build confidence by creating a supportive bridge from reading to horses in our experiential farm setting to reading aloud with peers and teachers in the academic classroom.
This course is for students who have participated in a prior Rearing2Read session. Research will be done on this program, and participants must sign participation waivers.
Tuition: The recommended donation for this program is $80.
Details:
Tuesdays, 4-4:45 pm
August 18, 25 and September 1st
At Rouxtano Farm
Fall Pen Pal Program
All in-person Rearing2Read programs will be on pause after September 1 while Ali is on maternity leave. In the meantime, we're excited to stay connected through a special new opportunity!
Volunteer Cady has partnered with her Girl Scout troop to launch a Pen Pal Program for our readers. Join us at the farm to learn about letter writing, meet your pen pals in person, and celebrate the start of this new adventure with an ice cream social. We hope you'll join us!
Details:
Tuesday, August 18th, 5-5:45 pm
At Rouxtano Farm
To sign up, email Ali at president@rearing2read.us
Explore Our Camps and Programs
Students start with attending the after-school sessions. Learners participate in reading activities and games with horses and other farm animals.
After School Program
During this camp, campers will be paired with a "big brother/sister" for the week and work through a series of reading work and activities.
Big “Siblings” Camp
This camp focuses on story and creativity through writing. Students will experience clinical speech pathology services from Holistic Kids Speech.
Summer “Writing” Camp
Join us for three days of reading games with the horses, swimming, crafts, and other activities at the Perkins' farm in Lincolnville, Maine.
Maine Camp
This program is designed for students ages 8–11 who experience reading anxiety or struggle with reading aloud.
Confident Reader's Book Club
The Horsemanship Book Club is a four-week course. During class, we’ll read a book about a specific horsemanship skill and then do fun activities to practice!
Horsemanship Book Club
Kids and families get together to decorate pumpkins each year during the Halloween season. The best pumpkin wins!
Pumpkin Decorating Contest
Holiday Party
Holiday Party
Kids and families get together to decorate cookies at the Orange County Library! Students are encouraged to sign up for library cards after the event.