First Lady Ann Scott kicks off 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure in Tallahassee

First Lady Ann Scott today welcomed more than 30 students from Springwood Elementary School to the Governor’s Mansion for the seventh annual Summer Literacy Adventure kick-off. The Summer Literacy Adventure challenges students to pledge to read as many books as possible over the summer, with the goal of students maintaining and improving upon the skills they gained during the previous school year.
For the seventh consecutive year, First Lady Ann Scott will share her passion for reading with summer camp students during fun-filled events at Florida state parks in June and July.
First Lady Ann Scott said, “It was a pleasure to welcome Springwood Elementary School students and teachers to the Florida Governor’s Mansion today as we kicked off the seventh annual Summer Literacy Adventure! As a mother and grandmother, I believe there is nothing more important than investing time in Florida’s children who will one day become leaders in our communities, state and nation. Literacy is an essential skill to succeed in any career path, and I hope that today’s event inspires these students to be life-long readers.”
The 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure is made possible through a partnership between the Florida Department of Education, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Lottery.
Education Commissioner Pam Stewart said, “We are grateful to First Lady Ann Scott for once again hosting students at the Florida Governor’s Mansion to raise awareness about the importance of reading every day, even when school is not in session. Her participation in the Summer Literacy Adventure has encouraged countless students to love reading as much as she does, and I hope that all of our state’s schools and families will take full advantage of this opportunity to motivate our young readers.”
DEP Secretary Ryan Matthews said, “DEP is proud to continue this important partnership with First Lady Ann Scott, DOE and the Florida Lottery. The Summer Literacy Adventure helps encourage the next generation to explore and learn about Florida’s unique natural environment.”
Florida Lottery Secretary Tom Delacenserie said, “The Florida Lottery is proud to once again join First Lady Ann Scott, the Department of Education and the Department of Environmental Protection in support of the 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure. We encourage Florida’s students to continue their reading this summer, and enjoy a visit to some of Florida’s incredible state parks.”
Research shows that children who do not continue reading through the summer can lose a month or more of progress made during the school year. By encouraging children to read, parents are playing a critical role in achieving Florida’s goal of having every child reading at or above grade level. Children can pledge to make summer reading a real-life adventure HERE.
 
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.