K is for Kids is rolling out its new literacy program, RISING READERS. The initiative will help support media specialists’ efforts to encourage students to read more and advance their reading fluency while recognizing students’ reading achievements. Children who meet goals set by their media specialists will be able to choose a new book to take home and keep. “RISING READERS will place more books directly into the hands of children,” said Clawson.
Young students at Manatee Elementary School.
“We are so fortunate to have such strong professionals in our school libraries,” she said. “Libraries are still very much the ‘heart’ of the school and these dedicated individuals keep the pulse alive. Many media specialists come up with creative ways to challenge their students to read more books. K is for Kids is honored to help support their efforts.”
“RISING READERS will boost the number of books a child has to keep and read at home. Children will be bringing literacy home to their families, sharing stories with their mothers and brothers, fathers and grandparents, sisters and friends.”
Six elementary schools and one high school have signed up for the pilot program. In order to qualify, a school must have a student population having 80% or more economically needy children as categorized by the school district’s lunch assistance program.
Nonprofits may also participate: K is for Kids donates books to children in need through other nonprofit organizations as well. This year, through its Building Book Nooks for Kids and RISING READERS programs, children at the Farm Workers Village in Immokalee, The Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, Immokalee Child Care Center, AMIKids of Big Cypress – the “Swamp Boys,” are benefiting from new books for their children to read in their programs and at home.
Supporters of RISING READERS include Arthrex Inc; First Book, National Book Bank; GLHOMES, SWFL Charity TV, websitedesignby.com, and Point of View writing and media relations.
To learn more about how to help children become leading readers, please call Karen Clawson at 239.596.KIDS or email Karen@KisforKids.org.