Assemblywoman challenges students

State Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages (D-Elmont) announced the kickoff of the Assembly’s annual Summer Reading Challenge last week. In partnership with libraries across the state, the program encourages children to continue reading during the summer months. Students who complete the Challenge will receive New York State Assembly Excellence in Reading certificates.

“The Summer Reading Challenge is a fun, productive way to help foster a love of learning and help our children succeed in school,” Solages said. “Studies show that reading over the summer months keeps students engaged and continues the progress made during the school year.”

Children who take part in the program must read by themselves or with a partner for a minimum of 15 minutes a day for at least 40 days in July and August. The days can be marked off on a calendar provided by the program and submitted to Solages’s district office. This year’s Summer Reading Challenge theme is “Every hero has a story.”

“The Summer Reading Challenge is a fantastic way to encourage kids to pick up a book, and strengthen their learning skills for the coming school year,” Solages said.

For families that may not have adequate access to books and other educational resources, the program’s partnership with local libraries ensures that every child has the chance to participate, Solages noted.

For more information about the Challenge, email muniana@assembly.state.ny.us, call (516) 599-2972 or visit Solages’s office, at 1690 Central Court in Valley Stream.