Now in its fifth year, the goal of this annual challenge is for young scholars to develop a love of reading. During Reading is Leading, our young readers track the minutes they spend reading, and at the end, win gift cards to award their dedication. Additional benefits of Reading is Leading include improving literacy skills, increasing student reading confidence, and increasing the confidence of families and caregivers to support students in their reading and education.

This year, the read-a-thon kicked off on February 28th and ended April 1st for PLN’s Charter Middle School and Gratts Primary Center. At CES, the read-a-thon is ongoing until April 29th. To celebrate the challenge, GPC and CES participated in a Dr. Seuss Spirit Week that included ‘Dress as a Cat in the Hat Day’, ‘Twin Day’, ‘Grinch Thursdays’, and ‘Sleepy Friday’.

[widgetkit id=”8″]

At GPC, each Reading is Leading participant was gifted a basket of goodies and snacks, while CE hosted a giveaway of free books and backpacks. All participants received a certificate showing their reading accomplishments.

Throughout the reading challenge, businesses and individuals joined in by reading virtually to PLN scholars across our three charter schools. Thank you to our thirteen volunteers who left their legacy and example of discovering awe and joy in reading!

Regarding her volunteering experience, Isabella Rodriquez shared, “Getting to interact with the kids was great. They were very vocal about liking the book I read and getting to hear their favorite parts was nice. It’s rewarding knowing volunteering provides an opportunity to engage directly with the youth. I highly recommend volunteering with PLN as a way to be involved and have an impact.” Another volunteer, Nelyda Gonzalez, shared, “This experience was rewarding because I felt like I was helping the community and youth. The students made me feel appreciated for taking time to read my favorite books to them… I look forward to future opportunities!”

Although the Reading is Leading Challenge will soon come to a close, reading to students is an year-round occasion. If you are interested to volunteer reading to students at any time in the year, please do not hesitate to contact Darlene Hernandez at dhernandez@paralosninos.org.