READ ON! RITCHIE ANNOUNCES $14,500 TO SUPPORT LITERACY PROGRAMS IN NORTH COUNTRY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

In an effort to improve student reading skills, State Senator Patty Ritchie has announced $14,500 in special funding to support reading programs in school districts throughout Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties.

“When we enhance student reading skills, we improve their ability to learn, grow and imagine,” said Senator Ritchie.

“Learning to read is the foundation of a student’s education, and I’m so pleased to provide this funding, which will help to expand learning opportunities for children across our region.”

Funding secured by Senator Ritchie will be used to support programs at elementary schools in the following districts:

Watertown City School District

Indian River Central School District

Edwards-Knox Central School District

Hammond Central School District

Hermon-Dekalb Central School District

Heuvelton Central School District

Lisbon Central School District

Madrid-Waddington Central School District

Morristown Central School District

Ogdensburg City School District

“When you put a book in a child’s hands and provide them with the knowledge to read on their own, you open up a world of new possibilities for them,” said Madrid Waddington Central School District Superintendent Lynn Roy.

“We cannot thank Senator Ritchie enough for this funding and for her support of our efforts to improve the reading skills of students at a young age.” 

“From helping students to develop of a love of learning to boosting confidence, the benefits of learning to read at an early age are without number,” said Watertown City School District Superintendent Terry Fralick.

“Learning to read is a springboard for future academic success, and we are thankful Senator Ritchie has recognized the important role in plays in student development.”

Senator Ritchie’s announcement of funding to support elementary level reading programs continues her work to expand opportunities for students throughout the region she represents.  Last week, Senator Ritchie announced $45,000 to enhance athletic programs in local school districts and last month, she announced funding to improve anti-bullying efforts in schools throughout Central and Northern New York.

(Senator Ritchie is pictured in the above photo during a recent visit to the Madrid-Waddington Central School District with District Superintendent Lynn Roy and Elementary Reading teacher Meghann Lyon)