I believe wholeheartedly in the power of reading and its ability to transform lives and communities. This school year, my students and I will be participating in the Project LIT Community to increase access to high-quality, culturally relevant books inside and outside of the classroom, and to promote a love of reading in Syracuse. We’ve partnered with dedicated teachers and students in more than 300 schools and 40 states to ensure that all children become proficient, passionate readers who possess the literacy skills to choose their post-secondary path. This year, we plan to host two Project LIT Book Clubs in our school library in order to bring students, parents, and community members together to discuss and celebrate outstanding literature. Additionally, throughout the year, our students will engage in meaningful service & project-based learning focused on literacy, which will allow them to gain critical 21st century skills while becoming better citizens, leaders and readers.