Press Release
A JMCSS communication for families & community stakeholders
Superintendent's Super Reader Challenge Ends this Week
Leap Up for Literacy Initiative sparked interests in not only students, but also adults
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
JACKSON, TN — The 8-week Superintendent’s Super Reader Challenge is headed to an exciting conclusion as the 700 minute reading goal Superintendent Dr. Marlon King presented to students across the district concludes this week. Reading 20 minutes every day from February 5th-March 29th was the winning formula in the district’s Leap Up for Literacy initiative.
“We will celebrate with the same energy and excitement as the students have displayed over the duration of the Super Reader Challenge, which means it’s going to be big. I’ve enjoyed seeing so many people engage in this initiative from students to adults. The academic and societal returns on this initiative will be significant because reading, even just 20 minutes per day, can be impactful,” Superintendent Dr. Marlon King noted this week.
Above video: Dr. Dub Oliver, President of Union University, participated in Leap Up for Literacy as a guest reader. Community partners from all over the Hub City are assisting JMCSS in promoting strong literacy skills.
Jackson-Madison County Schools and Jackson Rockabillys Baseball will host a Super Social event to celebrate top schools, students, and teachers who successfully read and documented their reading activities. A Playstation 5, iPad, and a number of gift cards will be rewarded to the most active readers from the Super Reader Challenge.
“Our principals and school leaders were wonderful in encouraging students to participate and also sharing the information with parents. The students have worked very hard, and we expect to celebrate with a large gathering of scholars when the Super Social takes place at Rockabillys stadium,” Chief Academic Officer Tiffany Spight shared.
Above photo: School Board member Dr. Ken Newman (right) joins Principal Dr. Amanda Brabham and East Elementary students during a Leap Up for Literacy event in February. Dr. Newman donated several books to the school.
In addition to prizes serving as extra incentives to read 20 minutes daily, students have benefited from taking an active approach to improving their literacy skills. Additionally, community partners like the City of Jackson, Lane College, Union University, West Tennessee Healthcare, and Jackson State Community College read books that have been viewed by thousands on social media.
“From birth to third grade we’re learning to read, and after that we’re reading to learn. Having your kids see you read and reading to your kids is the of the utmost importance,” said Mayor Scott Conger with the City of Jackson.
Photo below: Superintendent Dr. Marlon King announced a Superintendent's Super Reader Challenge 8 weeks ago. Students who completed and logged 700 minutes of reading since February 5th will have an opportunity to join Dr. King at a super social celebration at Rockabillys Baseball Stadium.
Leap Up for Literacy will continue to be an active theme for JMCSS students and schools. From improving kindergarten readiness to increasing scores in 3rd-11th grade English Language Arts, reading 20 minutes per day is a tangible step toward greater goals for young learners.
“Reading is important for a lifetime of education and knowledge. And it’s fun,” added Dr. Jackie Taylor, Chief Physician Executive for West Tennessee Healthcare and guest reader for Leap Up for Literacy.
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