As Grade-Level Reading Week approaches, several organizations on St. Thomas have joined forces to host a day where children can immerse themselves in books and storytime, and parents can gain access to valuable resources.
Launched in 2010, the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading (CGLR) is a nationwide effort involving foundations, nonprofits, business leaders, government agencies, states, and communities, aimed at ensuring children from low-income families succeed in school and graduate ready for college, careers, and a life of active citizenship.
On Tuesday, July 30, the Disability Rights Center for the Virgin Islands (DRCVI), the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI),and the US Virgin Islands Public Library System will host a Day of Storytime with Mrs. Roberts in partnership with the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum (VICM).
The event is open to children of all ages, with the storytime schedule is as follows:
- 10:30-11:00 AM: Children ages 0-5
- 11:30 AM-12:00 PM: Children ages 6-10
- 1:00-1:30 PM: Children ages 11 and older
A special parenting workshop is slated to take place from 11:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Despite the regular admission fee of $10 per person, thanks to DRCVI, the VICM will offer free admission next Tuesday, with museum members able to join the event by showing their membership cards. In addition to story times, attendees can learn about early-childhood literacy programs, join DARRI’s Book Club, and win prizes. Visitors can also explore the museum’s interactive STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) exhibits between storytimes.
Amber McCammon, VICM’s Executive Director of Programs and Facilities, noted that the museum’s mission “is to bring children and families together in an interactive educational space where dynamic play inspires a love of learning.” When museum officials found out about the DRCVI’s early-childhood reading initiatives, “we thought it would be great to combine efforts, especially since we’re all working with limited resources,” Ms. McCammon added.
Chantel Hoheb, VICM’s Executive Director of Operations and Development, expressed gratitude for community support. “We are so thankful to organizations like CFVI who donated books for us to distribute during our Grade-Level Reading event.” She called on parents and caregivers to ensure that they are actively involved in their children’s educational journey. “The VICM can help expose our young people to STREAM based concepts but the involvement of parents is what makes things stick. It’s that engagement and support at home that gives children the confidence to think for themselves and become problem solvers,” Ms. Hoheb declared.
