Florida Students Overcome Reading Fears Thanks to a Free Literacy Program
Every year, countless students dread the thought of reading, sometimes feeling overwhelmed and incapable. In Florida, however, a beacon of hope has emerged with the New Worlds Reading Initiative. Launched in 2021, this free program targets struggling young readers across the state, aiming to bridge the significant literacy gap affecting nearly one million children who are not reading at grade level.
The New Worlds Reading program stands out by delivering books directly to students' homes. Each enrolled child from VPK through 5th grade receives nine free books a year, personalized according to their preferences, including options in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, or braille. In just a few short years, they’ve successfully sent over 11 million books to families, igniting a passion for reading among students who previously felt hesitant or scared to engage with texts.
Students like Jahara from Miami have transformed their relationship with reading through supportive experiences provided by the program. Jahara reflects on her journey, stating that she once pretended to be sick to avoid reading in class, overwhelmed by anxiety and a lack of confidence. Thanks to the New Worlds Reading initiative, she has not only embraced her role as a reader but now proudly assists her younger sister Jazuri with her own reading challenges.
Faustino, a fifth grader who emigrated from Argentina, faced a different hurdle; he arrived in the U.S. without proficiency in English. He openly admitted, "I felt afraid to read books." With the help of New Worlds Reading, he discovered a book about his favorite sport, soccer. This connection facilitated the transition from fear to enjoyment, as he expressed, "Now, I feel... incredible." His mother encouraged him to 'study, study, study,' and now he loves reading in both English and Spanish, effectively silencing his previous fears.
These individual success stories are a testament not only to the children's resilience but also to the program's effectiveness in empowering young readers. As Robin Gregory, Assistant Director of New Worlds Reading, points out, it’s not just about sending books; it’s about helping students see themselves as readers and fostering a passion for literacy. The initiative intends to build confidence through reading, encouraging children to delve into new worlds and perspectives beyond their daily experiences.
With the back-to-school season upon us, New Worlds Reading reminds families of the profound impact a simple book can have. The stories of children like Jahara and Faustino are powerful reminders of how literacy can transform lives, opening the door to opportunities and new adventures.
For those intrigued by these remarkable stories of transformation and looking to enroll their own children in the program, more information can be found at NewWorldsReading.com. The program encourages families to follow their journey on social media @NewWorldsReading to hear more about students overcoming their hurdles with reading, enhancing their skills, and developing an enduring love for literature.
The New Worlds Reading program stands out by delivering books directly to students' homes. Each enrolled child from VPK through 5th grade receives nine free books a year, personalized according to their preferences, including options in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, or braille. In just a few short years, they’ve successfully sent over 11 million books to families, igniting a passion for reading among students who previously felt hesitant or scared to engage with texts.
Students like Jahara from Miami have transformed their relationship with reading through supportive experiences provided by the program. Jahara reflects on her journey, stating that she once pretended to be sick to avoid reading in class, overwhelmed by anxiety and a lack of confidence. Thanks to the New Worlds Reading initiative, she has not only embraced her role as a reader but now proudly assists her younger sister Jazuri with her own reading challenges.
Faustino, a fifth grader who emigrated from Argentina, faced a different hurdle; he arrived in the U.S. without proficiency in English. He openly admitted, "I felt afraid to read books." With the help of New Worlds Reading, he discovered a book about his favorite sport, soccer. This connection facilitated the transition from fear to enjoyment, as he expressed, "Now, I feel... incredible." His mother encouraged him to 'study, study, study,' and now he loves reading in both English and Spanish, effectively silencing his previous fears.
These individual success stories are a testament not only to the children's resilience but also to the program's effectiveness in empowering young readers. As Robin Gregory, Assistant Director of New Worlds Reading, points out, it’s not just about sending books; it’s about helping students see themselves as readers and fostering a passion for literacy. The initiative intends to build confidence through reading, encouraging children to delve into new worlds and perspectives beyond their daily experiences.
With the back-to-school season upon us, New Worlds Reading reminds families of the profound impact a simple book can have. The stories of children like Jahara and Faustino are powerful reminders of how literacy can transform lives, opening the door to opportunities and new adventures.
For those intrigued by these remarkable stories of transformation and looking to enroll their own children in the program, more information can be found at NewWorldsReading.com. The program encourages families to follow their journey on social media @NewWorldsReading to hear more about students overcoming their hurdles with reading, enhancing their skills, and developing an enduring love for literature.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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