FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – A new program hopes to boost youth literacy in Northeast Indiana.
The Fort Wayne (IN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated will launch a childhood literacy program on Saturday, Nov. 22 at the Pontiac Branch of the Allen County Public Library.
The program – “Books, Beats & Brushes!” – includes a book club and is open to all youth in Pre-K to 3rd grades. It will focus on “Reading, Rhythm, and Art for Joyful Learning.” The goal is to help youth improve reading fluency and comprehension, encourage family participation in reading at home, connect literacy with rhythm, art, and wellness while building pride in the African American culture and heritage.
The following was released:
There is no cost to participate, but parents and caregivers will be asked during the orientation launch from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 22 to register their youth.
The program will then meet on designated Thursdays and Saturdays through April 2026. It will include storytime with music and movement and creative art opportunities, based on inspiration from books being read. More details and specific dates will be provided at the orientation.
Each youth registered in the program will receive a Literacy Kit that includes a book with a culturally relevant story by an African American author/illustrator or theme and a mini lesson that focuses on health literacy.
In Fort Wayne Community Schools, the state’s largest district, 82.5% of third graders demonstrated reading proficiency through a standardized test students statewide are required to take. While that percentage has increased since the pandemic, there is still room for improvement, particularly among minority youth at some inner-city schools.
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