Jumpstart is a fantastic organization that helps low-income kids close the achievement gap so they can be successful in school. Did you know that in low-income neighborhoods more than 50% of kids start school up to two years behind their peers? When I worked in workforce development we tackled some of these issues with schools in our county, and I was shocked to learn that in some states, prison space is planned for the future based on the literacy achievements of middle schoolers. There is actually a correlation. Wow.
Every year Jumpstart encourages people to support their effort by organizing Read for the Record. It’s a way to call attention to their cause by hosting the largest shared reading experience in history. This year the book they’ve chosen is Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney. They are asking as many people as possible to pledge to read this book to as many kids as you can on October 6, 2011. You can go here to make your pledge.
It just so happens that Kohl’s has a special Kohl’s Cares deal on both the Llama Llama Red Pajama book and matching plush llama toy. They are only $5 each! Kohl’s Cares donated 100% of the profit from sales of these items to children’s health and education initiatives. You can also look for this great deal in Kohl’s stores.
Join us and LOTS of other people in pledging to join Read for the Record this year!
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