Investing in Literacy: Changing Lives, Strengthening Our Community
Most people think of College Station ISD as a district filled with middle-class families and well-supported students. But the reality tells a different story. 44% of CSISD students qualify for free lunch, and at College Hills Elementary—where the Rotary Club is launching its literacy initiative—that number rises to 76%.
Poverty and illiteracy go hand in hand. * When families struggle financially, children often lack access to books, early literacy support, and the stability needed for academic success. The inability to read proficiently by third grade is one of the strongest predictors of future academic failure, poverty, and even involvement in the criminal justice system.
Unlike many charity programs that provide temporary relief, the Rotary Club of College Station’s Reading Initiative is about solving the problem at its root. By investing in literacy, we are giving these children the foundational skill they need to break cycles of struggle, unlock opportunities, and build a future where they can contribute meaningfully to society.
The Reading Initiative will begin in the fall of 2025 and be kicked off with a week long “Adopt a Buddy Program” where every student at College Hills Elementary school is able to “adopt” a stuffed animal buddy… A buddy who they will read to. This fun and engaging way for kids to develop their reading skills was a first implemented by the school’s librarian a year or two ago.
The Rotary Club of college Station is stepping to help gather the 600+ stuffed animals needed to make this kick off a success.
Following the week long “Adopt a Buddy Program”, a 4-week RoAR ReadAThon will begin. This will take the form of a Reading Club comprised of 40 2nd graders. The 2nd graders will be divided into 4 teams; all members of the teams will be given a new book each week to read; and the team will earn points each week based on how many students read their new book how many times. The teams will meet once a week with a pair of volunteers who will read a story / book to the children and engage the children in a discussion about the book. The books read will be shorter reads but will focus on individuals who have overcome significant challenges. The goal of the books read is to contain a ‘message’ of hope – a message that can then be discussed with the children.
The Rotary Club of college Station is stepping to help gather the 600+ stuffed animals needed to make this kick off a success.
Following the week long “Adopt a Buddy Program”, a 4-week RoAR ReadAThon will begin. This will take the form of a Reading Club comprised of 40 2nd graders. The 2nd graders will be divided into 4 teams; all members of the teams will be given a new book each week to read; and the team will earn points each week based on how many students read their new book how many times. The teams will meet once a week with a pair of volunteers who will read a story / book to the children and engage the children in a discussion about the book. The books read will be shorter reads but will focus on individuals who have overcome significant challenges. The goal of the books read is to contain a ‘message’ of hope – a message that can then be discussed with the children.
When you support this program, you’re not just giving a donation—you’re giving a child a chance at success, a business a stronger future workforce, and a community a generation of empowered individuals.
Let’s build a stronger future together—one child, one book, one opportunity at a time. Will you join us?
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