Our nation and our community are faced with children who are trapped in a never-ending cycle of educational disadvantages. One of the biggest disadvantages facing children is the lack of books in their homes. Research shows 34% of children entering kindergarten lack the basic skills needed to learn to read. Based on these numbers, it is no surprise 65% of fourth graders read at or below the basic level. As the difficulty of classes increases, these students fall behind. Students who do not have access to books to read during the summer can have the equivalent of three lost years of reading by the fifth grade. At home reading is a critical component of student success.
Palestine is uniting to make a difference in the success of our children by raising funds to purchase four books for every kindergarten through third grade student in Westwood ISD, Palestine ISD, Christian Heritage Academy, and University Academy.