Governor Patrick Reminds Families that November is Massachusetts Family Literacy Month

State Officials Encourage Family Participation in Educational Activities

MALDEN - Governor Deval Patrick has proclaimed November 2010 to be the state's 14th annual Family Literacy Month in celebration of the pivotal role that parents and family members play in the educational success of their children.

As in years past, Family Literacy Month will include activities across the state that will support and celebrate literacy, lifelong learning and family well-being. Local events will be sponsored by schools, libraries, adult literacy programs, early childhood programs and other community groups.

"One of the greatest gifts we can give our children as parents and as educators is a deep love of reading," said Governor Patrick. "During Family Literacy Month and throughout the year, we must focus on building the support students and families need to develop the ability to read and read well."

"Reading is the foundation on which an excellent education is built," said Lieutenant Governor Timothy P. Murray. "I encourage all families to take out some extra time during this Family Literacy Month to read together."

Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester agreed.

"Students who are engaged in rich reading and literacy activities from an early age will be more successful in school and will graduate college and career ready," said Chester. "As a parent, I know the importance of family members partnering with children to develop literacy skills. I encourage families to share their love of reading and learning with their children."

"Reading to my children has always been one of my favorite activities because I want to instill in them the deep respect and enthusiasm that I have for reading," said Education Secretary Paul Reville. "We owe it to our children to work with them every day to share the gift of literacy."

Family Literacy Month is sponsored by the Massachusetts Family Literacy Consortium (MFLC) and its member agencies to encourage events during November as well as throughout the rest of the year. MFLC is a statewide initiative to forge effective partnerships among state agencies, community organizations, and other interested parties to expand and strengthen family literacy and support.

For more information on celebrating Family Literacy Month, visit www.doe.mass.edu/familylit/month/.