Two-thirds of Georgia’s children are not reading proficiently by the end of third grade.  In other words, in Georgia, 34% of our children are reading proficiently, while 66% are not.  Children unable to make the shift from learning to read, to reading to learn, face serious barriers for future learning, because they can’t grasp half of the printed fourth-grade curriculum and beyond, including math and science.  As a result, these children fall even further behind.

According to the research, children who can’t read proficiently by the end of third grade are more likely to experience poor health, have discipline problems, and become teen parents.  They are also four times more likely to drop out of high school.  As adults, they’re more likely to spend time in prison, struggle with unemployment, and face shorter life expectancies.

It’s time to take on third-grade reading proficiency-not only as an education issue, but as an urgent priority for all who care about children’s health and well-being.  We all have a vested interest in increasing grade – level reading; after all they are our next generation of leaders.

Individuals, businesses or faith based organizations, can be a part of Decatur County’s “Read, Dream, Achieve” Literacy Campaign by donating new or used books, which will be distributed to families throughout our community for home use.  We appreciate business partners, Memorial Hospital & Manor and Winn-Dixie for their donations as these books are currently in distribution.

Individuals, using online stores to make book purchases, may consider Amazon.com as a potential source, as a “Read, Dream, Achieve” account has been created and established under the “Lists” section. Additionally, individuals may select The Decatur County School System’s Support Center as their shipping address of choice.

New or used books are being accepted at any of our schools, however, additional community drop-off locations are needed.  As Partners in Education, drop-off locations will be provided with a “Read, Dream Achieve” book donation container, as well a book donation pick-up service.

For additional information pertaining to The Decatur County School System’s Read, Dream, Achieve Literacy Campaign, book drive, or other literacy partnership opportunities, such as; volunteering to become a “trained reader” in our schools, the district website may be accessed at www.dcboe.com / for Parents tab.  Individuals may also contact, Dr. Cheryl Guy, District Parent & Family Engagement Coordinator at 229-243-6847 or 229-248-2235 via phone or cguy@dcboe.com via email.