Phil Ammann
First lady Ann Scott read aloud to a group of summer camp students this week for the second stop of Florida’s 2015 Summer Literacy Adventure.
Surrounded by sparkling waters and native wildlife of Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Scott recited John Lithgow’s I’m a Manatee to a group of students from area summer camps.
Homosassa Springs, located in Citrus County, features native Florida flora and fauna as well as number of recreational and environmental activities. Ellie Schiller State Park is one of Florida’s best places to view manatees, many them cared for at the park before returning to the wild.
“The Sunshine State offers so many exciting adventures in Florida’s magnificent state parks,” Scott said. “Children can find excitement in literature and I encourage them to take the Summer Literacy Adventure pledge to read as many books as possible during the summer break.”
Joining the first lady were representatives from the Florida Department of Education, the Florida Lottery and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Also in attendance were Sam Himmel, superintendent of Citrus County Schools and Eric Head, director of the Citrus County Library System.
The Florida Lottery donated books and snacks for the children.
“Reading and literacy are the stepping-stones to success in school and in life,” Education Commissioner Pam Stewart said in a prepared statement. “I want to thank First Lady Scott for her commitment to helping students enhance their reading skills.”
The annual Summer Literacy Adventure program attempts to keep Florida students excited about reading beyond the classroom.
Research shows children who do not read through the summer can lose more than a month of progress made during the school year. By encouraging children to read, parents can help ensure every child reads at or above grade level.
“I welcome First Lady Scott and the children to one of Florida’s outstanding state park gems,” Florida Park Service Director Donald Forgione of the Ellie Schiller Park said.
Students interested in the program can fill out a Summer Literacy Adventure Pledge online at 2015 Summer Literacy Adventure. First lady Scott will visit the school whose students completed the most pledges for the 2015-2016 academic year.
