My first few weeks with Team Read have been full and inspiring! I feel extremely grateful for the warm welcome by an amazing staff, supportive board, and the entire Team Read community. During these weeks, I had the opportunity to visit our three summer learning sites.
Classrooms were buzzing with excitement. Readers and coaches connected as they read to one another. Students listened intently during the whole group read aloud time, as site coordinators asked them to make predictions and put themselves into characters’ shoes. Smiles and laughter rang out during enrichment time. The dedication of Team Read staff, coordinators, and coaches translated into fun, engaging, and meaningful summer programming.
I also had the chance to attend our Team Read Alumni event. Our alumni of reading coaches are an impressive and growing group. New high school graduates met alumni that served as reading coaches several years ago. Alumni gathered to connect, hear about the successful 2023-24 program year, and explore new ways to stay connected to each other and Team Read.
The dual impact of Team Read continues to inspire me. While elementary students increase their reading confidence, teens engage in meaningful leadership and work experience. It was powerful hearing the alumni talk about the relationships they nurtured with their readers, and the growth they saw both in themselves and their reading buddies.
There is no doubt that the ripple effect of Team Read is vast. I’m honored to be part of this remarkable team, and I look forward to partnering with you as we walk together into a bright future filled with hope and possibility.