Literacy is one of the key areas of focus established by Rotary International. Rotary Brockville supports this cause by enhancing student literacy skills through a program known as Dictionaries 4 Life. Under this program, students attending Grade 3 at district elementary schools in Brockville and Prescott receive their very own, beautifully illustrated Dictionary. In total, over 225 dictionaries will be distributed to our young citizens. Use of the dictionary by students, promotes books and the printed word. In addition, one of the more positive aspects of learning to use their dictionary is that the students develop autonomy and confidence, which are core goals for education.
Rotarians involved in the presentations mention that they are impressed by the pride of ownership that is also evident when a student is presented with their very own personal copy to keep. The students are encouraged to put their name on the dictionary and to use it regularly in their studies. In the photos above, Rotarians Marilyn Powers (right) and Emily Wimpenny (left) address students at St. Mark's Catholic School in Prescott, Ontario as they present them with their Dictionaries 4 Life.