Springfield lauded for reading program

April 8, 2016 | G. Michael Dobbs
news@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD – For the third year Springfield has been recognized as a Pacesetter by the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, one of only 38 communities across the country.

The announcement was made on March 31 in the library of the Warner Elementary School. No other municipality in the Commonwealth received the honor. The Springfield program was cited for making “measurable progress” on student attendance.

The award was presented on April 7 at a luncheon in Washington D.C.

With an audience of kindergarten students, Sally Fuller, the project director for Springfield’s Reading Success by Fourth Grade, said, “You’re the reason all of the grownups are here.”

Fuller said the bolstering literacy rates are done by “understanding the work is not only with schools.”

She noted the campaign involves organizations that are collaborating with Reading Success by Fourth Grade such as the United Way of the Pioneer Valley, the Hasbro Summer Learning Initiatives and The Regional Employment Board.

The work begins at birth with parents playing an important role. She asked the children how many of their parents read to them and all the hands shot up in response.

She then stressed the importance of “high quality pre-school” to make students ready for kindergarten.

Mary Kate Fenton, curriculum director for the Springfield public schools, said, “Our mission is to college and career ready … reading is at the core of that.”

David Cruise, president and CEO of the Regional Employment Board reminded everyone “this is our future workforce sitting in front of me.”

Mayor Domenic Sarno told the children, “You’re part of this award. You helped us get the award.”

He added, “You know what’s cook, kids? Being smart is cool. That’s how you get that jing in your pocket.”

“Pacesetter Honors are among the highest awards presented by the Campaign,” said Ralph Smith, the managing director of the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading. “We are very proud of Springfield and the numerous organizations and individuals behind them for joining forces and working tirelessly to uplift children and families. They remind us that we are seeing great progress and real results all across the country.”

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