Elk City, OK – Elk City Elementary and Intermediate Schools are inviting families to join a simple habit with a big payoff. Superintendent Mike Sparks says the district will roll out a 30-day Read Aloud Challenge that asks parents, grandparents, and caregivers to read with their student 5 minutes a day.
“Our kids did so good on the state academic outcomes and our teachers did so good,” Sparks said. “This is a way for school and families to pull together to keep that momentum going. Reading aloud builds a desire to read and sets students up for success.”
The challenge will run for students in Pre-K through 6th grade. Families are encouraged to snap a photo or short video of their read-aloud time, post it to Facebook, and tag the district using “For the Brown and White.” Participants are also urged to tag three or more friends to join.
As part of the effort, federal programs director Mrs. Buckmaster will purchase books for students to keep. Each student selects a title, then reads it at home with family during the challenge. “Imagine 700 to 800 Elk City kids and their families filling our feeds with reading,” Sparks said. “That would be pretty special.”
District flyers highlight why it matters. Research shows reading aloud is one of the most important things families can do to help children prepare for reading and learning. Daily read-alouds help build vocabulary and comprehension, reduce stress, improve focus, and grow a lifelong love of reading. Twenty minutes a day is ideal, but even 5 minutes can pay dividends.
The district will share full details and forms on its social channels next week so students can choose their books and get started.
How to join
Read aloud with your child 5 minutes a day for 30 days.
Take a photo or short video and share it on Facebook.
Tag the post “For the Brown and White” and challenge 3 or more friends to join.
Keep posting throughout the 30 days so the community can celebrate student success.
Fast facts
Who: Elk City students in Pre-K through 6th grade
What: 5 minutes a day, 30 days of read-alouds
Why: Builds vocabulary, comprehension, focus, and a love of reading
Bonus: Each student picks a free book to keep through federal programs
“We know our community cares about kids,” Sparks said. “This is a fun way to show it and help our students become better readers.”
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