News Article - Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

For Immediate Release
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Contact:	Heidi Guarino 781-338-3106 or JC Considine 781-338-3112

November is Massachusetts Family Literacy Month

MALDEN - Governor Patrick has declared November 2007 to be Family Literacy Month, in recognition of the critical role that parents play in the educational success of their children. This year marks the 11th annual statewide celebration of family literacy. Research shows students whose parents are full partners in their children's education are better students, more motivated and are more likely to go on to college after graduation. "There is no greater gift that an adult can give to a child than the love of books," said Governor Deval Patrick. "I encourage all citizens of the Commonwealth to take this to heart this month, and do their part every day by reading with their children." Acting Commissioner Jeffrey Nellhaus agreed. "It's a simple fact that students who love to read do better in school and ultimately, better in life," he said. "By reading to their children, and with their children, parents can help demonstrate both the importance of literacy and the fun of reading." Community groups including schools, libraries, adult literacy programs, early childhood programs and others are conducting literacy themed events across the state during this special month. On November 3rd, Cambridge will conduct their 11th annual citywide family literacy celebration for all Cambridge children and their families at Cambridge City Hall from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mayor Kenneth Reeves and other municipal leaders will kick off the event by reading to children. Every child who attends will receive a free book. In Allston-Brighton, the Jackson-Mann Community Center will be hosting a "Family Literacy Counts" event on November 15th from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Elected officials and school leadership will come together with families and their young children for a dinner, reception and family learning activities. Families will receive books and participate in a raffle of educational materials. The Massachusetts Family Literacy Consortium (MFLC) and its member agencies sponsor Family Literacy Month and encourage these events all year long. The MFLC is a statewide partnership of 14 state agencies including the Department of Education, statewide and community organizations, parents, and other interested parties working to integrate and coordinate family literacy and family support for at risk families. Its members provide education, health, employment, and human services and work toward the common purpose of helping families achieve independence and self-sufficiency. For more information on celebrating Family Literacy Month visit www.doe.mass.edu/familylit/.

Last Updated: November 1, 2007