Reading Rocks! sets new records this year

The Wilton Education Foundation’s Reading Rocks! program had its most successful year yet, raising a record of approximately $45,000 for Wilton public schools. Reading Rocks! is a fun, non-competitive read-a-thon program that encourages children in pre-K through fifth grade to read in their leisure time. Since its inception four years ago, the program has raised a cumulative $160,000. The participation of more than 1,200 students this year set another record for the program, which was sponsored by the Stroup family. “It is our privilege to sponsor Reading Rocks! as we passionately believe that reading, writing and speaking well are crucial life skills,” said Chris Stroup. “It is also valuable to instill the importance to giving back to the community at a young age.” Prior to the program’s Jan. 24 through Feb. 8 reading period, students sought pledges to support their reading goals, as well as their fund-raising goals to raise money for the foundation, which in turn benefits the schools. Prizes Incentives were offered at each school — by grade in Miller-Driscoll and by house in Cider Mill. Miller-Driscoll second graders earned an extra recess, while Kent students at Cider Mill won a homework-free day. In a random drawing among participants, based on the number of pledges collected by Jan. 23, one iPad Mini was given away across all grades and one Kindle Fire was awarded per grade at Miller-Driscoll and one per house at Cider Mill. “As Wilton parents, it’s exciting to get notice of the annual Reading Rocks! program,” said Donna Savage, whose daughter attends Cider Mill. “The program provides valuable incentives to encourage kids to enjoy their reading.” Superintendent Kevin Smith said Reading Rocks! not only “generates enthusiasm and motivates young children to read,” but it also “provides critical support to our school community by fostering a deep love of reading.” “We are grateful to WEF for organizing the event and supporting our school children in such a critical way,” said Dr. Smith. To learn more about the Reading Rocks! program, visit: wiltoneducationfoundation.org.

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