Numerous kids were gathered in the auditorium at Montgomery Elementary School in an invitation to learn and dream through books.
The two words most frequently used by children raising their hands were "book" and "dreams"; according to Nora Vargas, head of the Board of Supervisors, and Nancy L. Sasaki, CEO of United Way of San Diego County, who asked them engaging questions to get them involved.
Students in the first through third grades spoke enthusiastically about the books they enjoyed as they appreciated and reflected on their school experiences.
The summer break is quickly approaching, so the United Way of San Diego County is giving away dozens of books to 127 Montgomery Elementary students to make the most of the time and keep developing an appreciation for reading while children are not in school.
In actuality, it was stated that this organization will provide students in kindergarten through sixth grade with a total of 500 books, therefore the remaining 327 must be added. According to reports, the books were donated by local businesses and individuals and were gathered during the Read Across America initiative that was held in March.
According to a news release,"The United Way of San Diego County seeks to cultivate a nation of diverse readers and increase children's access to age-appropriate books at home, particularly during the summer months"
“Helping children become good readers is one of the most powerful ways to set them up for success."
It is stated, however, that the ideal is to increase the access of children to age-appropriate books and they made an important mention that although all children dream of what they want to be, "unfortunately for many those dreams fade due to disparities in education and family stability that ultimately hold them back.”
Additionally, it is mentioned in the United Way of San Diego County study that children's capacity to improve their reading abilities is jeopardized when they do not have access to books at home.
In six states, including California, Arizona, New Mexico, Alaska, Louisiana, and Mississippi, it was made public that 85% of children from low-income households do not fulfill competitive standards.
Additionally, research shows that children who are not reading at grade level by the end of third grade have a four times greater likelihood of dropping out of High school. This is largely because reading comprehension is fundamental and essential to the development of educational concepts that are more advanced.
