Read Across America Proclamation

[sandnsea]

Hidden in the pages of books are extraordinary worlds and
characters that can spark creativity and imagination, and unlock
the potential that lies within each of our children. Reading
is the foundation upon which all other learning is built, and
on Read Across America Day, we reaffirm our commitment to
supporting America's next generation of great readers.

Cultivation of basic literacy skills can begin early
and in the home. It is family who first instills the love
of learning in our future leaders by engaging children in
good reading habits and making reading a fun and interactive
activity. Regardless of language or literacy level, every adult
can inspire young people to appreciate the written word early
in life. Parents and mentors can help build fundamental skills
by reading aloud to children regularly, discussing the story,
and encouraging children to ask questions on words or content
they do not understand. By passing a passion for literature
on to our sons and daughters, we prepare them to be lifelong,
successful readers, and we provide them with an essential skill
necessary for academic achievement.

Teachers also play an integral role in our students'
lives, and educators can help prepare our children to meet
the challenges of tomorrow by making reading a key component
of classroom activities. Our Nation's young people rely on
the critical thinking and analytical skills gained from reading
to build other areas of knowledge, including the subjects of
science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The next
generation's ability to excel in these disciplines is crucial
to America's strength and prosperity in the 21st century.

Read Across America Day marks the birthday of Theodor Seuss
Geisel, better known to the world as Dr. Seuss. Through amusing
wordplay and engaging tales, his stories have helped generations
of young Americans enjoy reading and sharpen basic reading
skills, vital tools for their future success. With parents,
teachers, and communities working together, we can ensure
reading is a national priority and American pastime.
By recommitting to improving literacy and raising the
expectations we have for our students, for our schools,
and for ourselves, we will win the future for our children
and give every child a chance to succeed.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested
in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States,
do hereby proclaim March 2, 2011, as Read Across America Day.
I call upon children, families, educators, librarians, public
officials, and all the people of the United States to observe
this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
first day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven,
and of the Independence of the United States of America the
two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

[azmouse]

As an avid reader I applaud this!