Hartford Public Library and United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut are teaming up to send volunteers virtually into Hartford Public Schools first grade classrooms to read to students.
Jumpstart’s “Read for the Record,” taking place October 29, is a global campaign which generates public support for high-quality early learning by mobilizing millions of children and adults to take part in the world’s largest shared reading experience. Jumpstart is a national early education organization that works toward the day every child in America enters kindergarten prepared to succeed.
“Hartford Public Library welcomes every opportunity to work with our Boundless partner, Hartford Public Schools, and United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut to support early literacy. To be involved with Jumpstart Read for the Record program, which invites the community to read to the students of HPS in English and Spanish, reinforces our efforts to celebrate the importance of reading across all ages. We are excited to be invited to support this program through participating as readers, as well as providing the technological support to make this program a success,” said Bridget Quinn-Carey, HPL president and CEO.
“United Way is committed to early literacy and children reading at grade-level. Jumpstart’s Read for the Record is just one way we act on that commitment. Our virtual read-alouds provide volunteers with an opportunity to stay engaged and for children to benefit, whether they’re in-school or at home,” said Paula S. Gilberto, President and CEO, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut. “Through our partnership with Hartford Public Library, Hartford Public Schools, and Jumpstart’s Read for the Record, we’re working to bridge the digital divide.”
“Evelyn Del Rey is Moving Away,” written by Meg Medina and illustrated by Sonia Sanchez, is this year’s book. “Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away” is a celebration of lasting friendship, the power of connection, and encountering change.
Hartford Public Library will give a copy of the book to each first grade classroom in Hartford participating in the program. Copies will be made available in English and Spanish. In addition, HPL staff members will participate in virtual readings of Medina’s book.
“This opportunity for the community to read to the children of Hartford not only provides an enriching literacy experience for students, it demonstrates the importance and enjoyment of reading across all ages. Instead of telling children about the importance and joy of reading the community is showing them. This is the most powerful lesson,” said Denise Martens, HPL’s youth and family services manager.
For more information about Jumpstart, visit jstart.org.
For more information about Hartford Public Library, visit hplct.org.
For more information about United Way of Central and Northeastern CT, visit unitedwayinc.org
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