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Scholastic's 2024 Philanthropic Impact Report: Enhancing Book Access for Every Child

Scholastic, a prominent name in children's publishing and education, has unveiled its third annual Philanthropic Impact Report. This document not only reflects the company's commitment to literacy but also highlights its mission to promote book access for children around the globe. In 2024, Scholastic, along with its partners, has made significant strides, reaching over 30 million children and 350,000 educators by distributing books through their nonprofit networks.

Judy Newman, Chief Impact Officer at Scholastic, emphasized the importance of collaboration in fostering a love for reading. "At Scholastic, we recognize the transformative power of working with partners to put our aligned missions into action," she stated. The report narrates compelling stories behind their initiatives aimed at improving literacy and ensuring that every child has access to books that can ignite their imaginations.

The report findings showcase the far-reaching impact of Scholastic's partnerships with organizations such as the Scripps Howard Foundation, Book Trust, and Save the Children. These collaborations have been instrumental in breaking down barriers to literacy. In one notable initiative, the Scripps Howard Fund has provided 1.5 million books since 2016 to some of the country’s most underprivileged children. Meredith Delaney, President and CEO of the Scripps Howard Fund, shared that through their partnership with Scholastic, they are not only enabling access to books but also allowing children the freedom to choose stories that resonate with their experiences.

Recent studies, specifically the Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report™, indicate that schools play a pivotal role in enhancing children's book access. The data revealed that 54% of children obtain their leisure reading materials from school libraries, classroom book fairs, or order forms distributed by teachers.

Additionally, Scholastic's achievements are underscored by the substantial financial contributions and resources raised by schools. The report highlights how schools collectively garnered hundreds of millions of dollars, directing these funds towards enhancing literacy programs and providing essential resources for children and families.

To further enrich the reading experience, Scholastic continues to innovate educational programs tailored to meet the needs of diverse learners. Their initiatives strive to empower communities and foster a culture of reading. This endeavor not only nurtures students' academic success but also promotes a lifelong appreciation for literature.

In essence, the 2024 Philanthropic Impact Report serves as a beacon, illuminating Scholastic’s relentless pursuit of a world where every child, regardless of their background, can revel in the joy of reading. The company remains dedicated to its mission of providing every child with the tools they need to succeed.

For those interested in a deeper dive into Scholastic's 2024 Philanthropic Impact Report and its broader initiatives, the full report can be accessed via www.scholastic.com/csr.