The Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County is taking significant steps to address literacy challenges among children in the community by introducing the Reading Horizons program. This initiative aims to improve reading skills, particularly for economically disadvantaged children who may not have access to literacy support at home.

Addressing Literacy Challenges

Jeannie Miranda, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County, highlighted the importance of literacy in preventing future challenges. Statistics show that 70% of incarcerated adults read at or below a fourth-grade level, and 85% of youth in the juvenile justice system are considered functionally illiterate. These figures underscore the need for early intervention in literacy.

The Reading Horizons program is an evidence-based curriculum focused on phonics, teaching children how letters and sounds form words. This foundational approach is designed to enhance reading fluency and comprehension, ultimately leading to better academic performance.

Summer Learning and Beyond

Miranda emphasized the importance of maintaining educational momentum during the summer months to prevent the ‘summer slide,’ where students lose some of the achievement gains made during the school year. The club employs 132 certified teachers who dedicate five hours a day during the summer to educational activities, including literacy and math skills, ensuring that children return to school ready to progress further.

The Boys & Girls Club’s commitment to literacy is a testament to the organization’s broader mission of supporting children’s health and education, providing them with the tools they need to succeed in life.

Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.