Karen let me know about this very cool project that Jumpstart is doing to set the record for the number of children and adults reading the same book in a single day. They're going to have everyone read The Little Engine That Could on Thursday, August 24, 2006. There are materials on the web site for libraries and classes and individuals can sign up and be part of it too. They're going to be on the Today Show and other places as well.
http://www.readfortherecord.org/
On August 24, 2006, Jumpstart and its partners Starbucks, Pearson/Penguin, American Eagle Outfitters, and we hope YOU! – will set a world record for the number of children reading the same book, The Little Engine that Could, on the same day. This will be an annual event to build awareness around the importance of quality early education. Jumpstart is hosting events across the country in major metropolitan areas, in Starbucks stores, bookstores, Head Start centers and other preschool sites. Mrs. Laura Bush is the campaign’s Honorary Chairperson and NBC’s Matt Lauer is supporting the campaign…he will even be broadcasting the event live to the world from Rockefeller Plaza on the “Today” Show. Jumpstart will be selling custom limited edition books to the public through Starbucks stores from August 1-28; the sale of these custom books will support Jumpstart’s work in low-income communities (your constituents may also purchase copies online for Jumpstart preschoolers).
Now I have to see if I can get my library to sign on...
Help spread the word please!
As Karen writes:
This year alone, Jumpstart college student Corps members are working with 10,000 children in 22 states building the vital literacy, social, and emotional skills children need to thrive. High quality early education for children has been shown to increase graduation rates and lower negative outcomes such as being convicted of a violent crime.As powerful as this experience has been for me, even more amazing is that this transformational experience is duplicated thousands of times each day in Jumpstart programs across America.
I hope you will get involved in Jumpstart's Read for the Record to support my work and to connect in the same way with a child in your life.