Tennessee’s First Lady, Crissy Haslam, presented her message regarding the importance of early literacy to the charter members of the Children’s Reading Foundation of the Upper Cumberland (CRF of the UC) on September 23 during their foundation’s kickoff event. Leaders from school districts and communities throughout the Upper Cumberland came together to show support for improving early childhood reading skills. “One of the main things the governor hears when it comes to recruiting industry are concerns about the education of our workforce. Reading helps children go on to find high-quality jobs. It’s the key to everything they do in school,” said Haslam. The First Lady also emphasized the importance of parent involvement in their child’s education and encouraged parents to read to their children 20 to 30 minutes everyday.
Following the First Lady’s remarks, plaques were presented to representatives from each school district. Among those receiving a plaque from the First Lady was Cannon County’s Director of Schools, Barbara Parker.
The goal set by members of the CRF of the UC is that 90% of third graders in the Upper Cumberland will be reading at, or above, grade level by the 2021 school year. With that goal in mind, the foundation is partnering with the National Children’s Reading Foundation to offer free READY! For Kindergarten classes for parents and caregivers of children ages birth to 5 years. If you or someone you know is interested in receiving more information about the classes, please contact Dr. Regina Merriman, Preschool Director, at 615-563-5752.
