Jonathan Dickinson State Park

First Lady Ann Scott today shared her passion for reading with students from the Tree Top Academy of Palm Beach at the Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound and encouraged them to take the Summer Literacy Adventure pledge to read every day. At the start of the 2017-2018 school year, First Lady Ann Scott will visit the school whose students successfully completed the most pledges during the 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure.
First Lady Ann Scott said, “I had an extraordinary time visiting students around the state and sharing my love of reading during the 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure. I truly believe that a strong foundation of literacy is important for students to achieve their dreams and career goals. I’m so excited to celebrate with the winning school this fall and meet even more of Florida’s outstanding students and educators!”
The First Lady was joined by representatives from the Florida Department of Education, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Florida Lottery. DEP generously provided state park passes, Junior Ranger Activity Folders, pencils and sunglasses for the student participants, and a Florida Lottery sponsorship made it possible for students to leave with a goody bag containing books.
“It is critical that Florida’s students continue to read during the summer months to ensure they are prepared to succeed during the school year,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “I am grateful that First Lady Ann Scott has dedicated her time to inspiring Florida students to share her love of reading.”
“At the Lottery, we remain committed to ensuring Florida’s students become the leaders of tomorrow,” said Secretary Jim Poppell. “It is our hope that as a new school year begins, students continue to develop an appreciation of reading that will stay with them throughout their lifetime.”
The 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure helps keep Florida students excited about reading and literacy. 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 their children to read, parents play an important role in ensuring every child reads at or above grade level.
“The Loxahatchee River that runs through Jonathan Dickinson State Park is one of two federally designated Wild and Scenic Rivers in Florida,” said DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein. “I can think of no better setting to learn about the natural beauty of wild Florida.”
Students can fill out their Summer Literacy Adventure Pledge form at 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure.
 
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.