LANSING, Ill. (May 8, 2024) – Heritage Middle School continues to inspire young readers at its last book giveaway of the year sponsored by Reading is Fundamental. Students had the opportunity to explore the book options and make their selections.
It is the second year RIF has sent free books and reading resources to HMS, said Susan Brady, reading specialist at Heritage Middle School.
Partnering with Reading is Fundamental
Reading is Fundamental is a non-profit children’s literacy organization providing books and reading resources to children nationwide.
Last year, Brady partnered with RIF to get the school a three-year reading grant for free books, backpacks, bookmarks, and stickers.
She says the grant provides three free books per year for each student.
RIF sends over 1,000 free books per year during the three-year grant period. The books are selected by the organization for middle school reading levels.
In March, Brady and four HMS students were featured in a reading documentary by RIF and Sinclair Broadcasting. The documentary was part of the organization’s campaign to support children’s literacy and encourage them to read.
Book Giveaway
Brady hosts three book giveaways a year where students can choose one free book. She believes it is important to encourage students to read and support literacy.
The giveaways usually take place during school hours to ensure every class comes to pick a book. Brady asked teachers to reserve a time to arrive to avoid conflicting with another class. Students were able to choose from a variety of fiction and non-fiction books. Bookmarks and book stickers were provided, as well.
Brady says the goal is to get books into the hands of kids especially those who may have difficulty accessing them.
“Some kids don’t have the capability to get to the library or money to get books so we hope this entices them and to give them an interest in reading,” she said.
Brady says the school has one more school year before the reading grant needs to be renewed. For more information about Reading is Fundamental, visit www.rif.org
Heritage Middle School is located at 19250 Burnham Ave in Lansing.
Related
- Heritage teacher and students to appear in reading documentary for National Reading Month (March 26, 2024)
RIF books are not a substitute for a certified librarian in every school in District 171.