Reading College 2021 graduation took place Friday, July 30 at Red Deer College. (Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

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Sixty-four soon-to-be grade three students walked across the stage this past week to wrap up another year of Reading College.

The program gives students about to enter grade three a chance to catch up on their literacy skills over the summer, and takes place at Red Deer College, this year at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre.

“These students came into the program struggling with reading and writing, but with hard work, dedication and great teaching for 20 days in July, they learned to love to read and write and furthered their skills. Grade three is going to be a great year for these kids,” says Bruce Buruma, executive director, Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools.

“We also hear great stories from parents after their child has attended Reading College. They tell us before attending the program, their child did not enjoy reading and writing, but afterwards, they are more confident in their skills and abilities and now take the initiative to read. This is what the program is all about – giving kids the confidence to read and write. This program truly changes the lives of kids.”

Since its inception 10 years ago, Reading College has welcomed and graduated more than 500 students.

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“The program has evolved, but one thing has not changed and that is Reading College is about giving kids life chances. Reading College is a project of the Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools and could not happen without the generosity of our sponsors and our community’s support,” Buruma explains.

“The Optimist Clubs of Red Deer are a founding partner of Reading College and they continue to strongly support the program year after year. Tim Hortons is also a major supporter of the program with all proceeds of the Smile Cookie Campaign in Red Deer going to Reading College. These are just two examples of the many supporters that Reading College has.”

According to the foundation, third grade reading levels are one of the best predictors of high school graduation.