Stop the Summer Slide
May 5, 2020
At MKEC, supporting our community is unquestionably part of our DNA. With our options to pitch in and volunteer limited this year – including our more than 17 year-long tradition of mentoring students at Minneha Core Knowledge Magnet Elementary – we’ve been on the lookout for a way we can virtually support Wichita. Thanks to the Wichita Public Library, we found it!
WPL is kicking off its Summer Reading Program early this year. The program, for children ages zero to 17 engages children in reading challenges and activities and offers them the chance to win prizes. In addition to supporting literacy and exploration during the spring and summer – it’s also aimed at helping to prevent Wichita’s kids from suffering the so-called “summer slide” – a disturbing trend researchers say can wipe out a lot of gains students make during the school year.
In fact, a recent study shows that students in 3rd to 5th grades lost, on average, roughly 20% of their school year advances in reading during the summer break.
WPL’s Summer Reading Program is integrated into the USD 259’s Summer Latchkey program, City of Wichita Parks and Recreation summer programs, as well as our community partner, the Greater Wichita YMCA.
As parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, we know firsthand the power of a great book and the promises a firm foundation in reading can offer children. That’s why we’re on a mission to introduce new readers to the Wichita Public Library Summer Reading Program. Please help us spread the word and build a community of readers!