Recently, while taking a walk, I was struck by the beauty of a multicolored tree in my neighborhood. After taking in the hues of green, yellow, orange, and red, I was hit with the realization that fall is right around the corner! With every changing season, I’m continually surprised by the quick, yet full nature of time.
It has been one year since I began as the Executive Director of Team Read, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to be part of this impactful work. In August of 2024, I started just as we were wrapping up summer programming. I was delighted to feel the joy and wonder of the readers. Elementary students had a ball with their high school coaches while growing their confidence in reading.
The transition to fall was a busy time filled with preparation for a new program year. Reading coaches and site coordinators were trained and raring to welcome a new cohort of readers.
As winter set in, programs were humming along. Coaches and readers found their rhythm and deepened their connection. As winter started to wane, we were warmed up with the highlight of our wonderful luncheon, “Better Together.” We heard from reading coaches, school leaders, and Team Read supporters about the power of our program.
Spring brought the opportunity to celebrate a successful year of programming. Readers graduated in May with their coaches cheering them on. Reading pairs reflected on all the hard work and progress that was made throughout the year.
And then, before we knew it, we were right back to the sunshine season. This summer, I witnessed caring and dedicated coaches connecting with their readers. I saw dedicated Site Coordinators providing a fun, safe, and thoughtful environment. We were excited to add a new summer site in Renton and are grateful to all our summer partners in collectively creating a fantastic summer learning experience for youth.
As I head into my sophomore year as Executive Director, I am filled with gratitude for an amazing year. The word “sophomore” literally means “wise fool.” I understand that I have much more to learn, but I know that with the strength, passion, and commitment of the Team Read community, we have a bright future ahead of us.