U.S. Attorney’s Office staff read to young students to increase childhood literacy

MIAMI – Kids who read at grade level in the fourth grade are much more likely to remain in school and get higher grades on standardized tests. According to Begin to Read statistics, 78 percent of children who do not read proficiently by fourth grade usually never catch up.     

Staff from the Law Enforcement Coordination and Community Outreach Section (LEC/COS) of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida realize the importance of reaching children early. They read throughout South Florida, most recently reading at elementary schools in Opa-Locka, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Liberty City and Pompano Beach. The locations change weekly, but the message remains the same—foster a love of reading in pre-K students. 

Students are always excited to see the readers. In many cases, they want to hear the same books over and over. And when it comes to their favorite books to read, “Pete the Cat” reigns supreme. 

“Good morning, everyone,” said Community Outreach Specialist Corey Mackay, LEC/COS, to a group of pre-K students at Cypress Elementary School in Pompano Beach. “I have a good Pete the Cat book but you need to help me sing. Can you do that?”

The children enthusiastically agreed, got quiet, and listened.  

“They definitely enjoy when you guys come,” said a local pre-K teacher. “It’s a breath of fresh air to have someone else read to them. The kids love it.”

Giving children a love of reading is the reason for this program. LEC/COS staff also give books to the students to help build their personal libraries at home.

“We’ve been doing these readings for at least seven years,” said LEC/COS Chief J.D. Smith. “We go to nearly 30 elementary schools throughout the district each month, from Homestead to Fort Pierce. We believe in this program, and I absolutely feel it makes a difference in their lives.”

Research shows that children who fall behind in literacy are four times more likely to drop out of school. LEC/COS staff organize these readings at schools in areas considered to be book deserts.

“For many children, it’s tough to get access to printed books,” said Smith. “Underserved areas can lack community libraries. That’s why we bring books with us. Every little bit helps. If we can get one child to love reading, then it’s worth it.”

Anyone interested in donating children’s books to the reading program may do so by calling the U.S. Attorney’s Office Violence Reduction Partnership at (305) 961-9134. 

Community Outreach Specialist Corey Mackay, Law Enforcement Coordination and Community Outreach Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, reads books to pre-K students at Holmes Elementary School in Liberty City  in an effort to foster a love of reading.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.

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