The Mayor’s Reading Program has been a tradition since 1998 when then Mayor Bob Mitchell introduced it to our elementary schools. Nineteen years later, all nine Casa Grande Elementary Schools are involved, in addition to Legacy Charter School, Grande Innovation, Thrive and St. Anthony’s Catholic School. Students in Kindergarten through 3rd grade enjoy this monthly program.
There are 65 volunteers ready to start a new school year in September. An increase of 20 volunteers since last May! But as the city has grown, so has the need – we need more readers!
Mayor Craig McFarland, is challenging local businesses to get involved and push this program to a new level. Many businesses allow employees time off to volunteer for a worthy case. This is an excellent example of how to do that.
For those who have flexible schedules, this can also be a positive volunteer opportunity. What a great way to have a few friends join with you and make it a monthly occasion. Reading to our kids will help promote literacy, volunteerism and positive interaction with our schools.
The commitment is once a month between September and April for one hour. The program is done in the early part of the school morning with readers visiting 3-4 classes for 15 minutes each. The Library does a great job of scheduling readers, sending reminders and can even help you find the perfect book for the age group.
Your support is needed for this important literacy program in Casa Grande. To sign up to be a reader you and your employees can go to the city website at www.casagrandeaz.org or contact Librarian Amber Kent at 520-421-8652. Please sign up by August 31st.
