Partnerships: Empowering Literacy Through Community Collaboration!

The Great S.A. Reading Challenge thrives on the belief that 

fostering a love for reading extends beyond the classroom. 

By engaging local heroes and community partners, 

we aim to inspire students and create lasting impacts on literacy.

Real Heroes Read

In celebration of National First Responders Day on October 28, invite local heroes, firefighters, police officers, paramedics, military service members, and other first responders to participate in a “Real Heroes Read” initiative. These community members can visit schools to read to students, sharing stories that highlight courage, compassion, and community service.

How to Get Involved:

• For Heroes: Sign up to read to students during school hours or special events.

• For Schools: Coordinate with local first responders to schedule reading sessions.

Community Partners Competitions

Engage various community groups in friendly competitions to promote reading:

• School Trustees: Challenge board members to read with students.

• Corporations: Encourage local businesses to sponsor reading events or provide volunteers.

• Government Entities: Invite local government officials to participate in reading sessions.

• PTAs: Collaborate with PTAs to organize reading activities.

• Retirement Communities: Involve senior citizens in reading programs, fostering intergenerational connections.

Why Schools Should Invite Community Partners

Inviting community partners to read to students enriches the reading experience by:

• Providing Community Helpers Perspectives: Students hear different voices and stories from various community members.

• Building Relationships: Strengthens ties between schools and the local community.

• Enhancing Motivation: Students are inspired by real-life role models who value reading.

Tips for Schools:

• Plan Ahead: Coordinate with partners early to schedule reading sessions.

• Promote Events: Use newsletters, social media, and school assemblies to inform the community.

• Celebrate Participation: Acknowledge and thank partners publicly to encourage continued involvement.