Since 2014, Spread the Word Nevada, the state’s largest children’s literacy nonprofit, has provided Books on Break. A weekly summer reading program that encourages at-risk students to read over the summer break. The efforts to bridge the summer reading gap is important to the overall mission of advancing childhood literacy in our community. Partially sponsored by NV Energy, the program includes a story read aloud, a gently used book for children to take home, and reading logs to fill out as they read every week.
Literacy Support
“Spread the Word Nevada provides critical literacy support to students and families throughout our state. NV Energy is proud to be a year-round partner. Particularly in the summer when the risk is high for students to lose educational momentum,” said Tony Sanchez, NV Energy Executive Vice President, Business Development and External Relations.
In the span of ten weeks last summer, STWN visited over 30 local community sites to distribute over 12,000 books. Over 2,300 students enjoyed story time and a book to call their own.
However, in response to the pandemic and the restrictions in place, STWN has converted this program to a virtual experience through Facebook Live and Zoom.
“We knew we had to continue this summer program despite the obstacles,” says Lisa Habighorst, STWN Executive Director. “Reading books is the best way to keep our kids learning throughout the summer.”
Every effort goes into providing an engaging and educational environment as it normally would at the community sites. This summer, 19 sites are being streamed this vital program. Utilizing a green screen background, STWN facilitator Ms. Anna goes underwater with colorful fish to read “Clark the Shark” and “Commotion in the Ocean” in the sea life-themed week. Other exciting themes include gardening, desert life, and creativity. Books, activity sheets and reading logs are delivered to community sites weekly.
STWN’s literacy programs, including Books on Break, relies on the kindness of our community through donations. Visit SpreadTheWordNevada.org to make a donation towards the purchase of new books for children in need.
