Leading Educational Retailer Invites Children and Parents to Help Set a World Reading Record
CARSON, Calif., Sept. 23, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Lakeshore Learning Materials, a leading developer and retailer of children's educational materials, today announced all of its 58 store locations across the country will host events in celebration of Jumpstart's Read for the Record. Presented in partnership with the Pearson Foundation, Jumpstart's Read for the Record is the premier national campaign that brings together millions of individuals to celebrate literacy by breaking the world record for the largest shared reading experience.
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From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on September 28, parents and children are invited to come to Lakeshore stores nationwide to enjoy hourly readings of Otis—the official book of Jumpstart's Read for the Record 2013 campaign—and participate in free crafts and activities.
"Jumpstart's Read for the Record is a meaningful way for Americans to support the critical need for high-quality early education in our country," said Jumpstart's president and CEO, Naila Bolus. "We know that for children living in low-income communities, this need is significant. By the time these children enter kindergarten, they are already 60% behind their more affluent peers. We are thrilled to have Lakeshore involved in Jumpstart's Read for the Record, bringing light to this national issue and giving citizens a platform to voice their support for this cause."
Since the campaign's inception in 2006, 9 million children have participated in Read for the Record, and more than $8 million has been raised to support Jumpstart's mission: to work toward the day every child in America enters kindergarten prepared to succeed.
"Lakeshore is extremely proud to be a part of Jumpstart's Read for the Record," said Bo Kaplan, president and CEO of Lakeshore. "We look forward to helping Jumpstart break another world record—and most importantly, inspiring kids to develop a love of reading!"
For event details, please visit www.LakeshoreLearning.com/ReadfortheRecord.
About Lakeshore
Lakeshore Learning Materials is a leading developer and retailer of top-quality materials for early childhood education programs, elementary schools and homes nationwide. Since 1954, Lakeshore has offered innovative learning materials distinguished by their quality, educational merit and safety. To learn more, visit LakeshoreLearning.com.
About Jumpstart
Jumpstart is a national early education organization working toward the day every child in America enters kindergarten prepared to succeed. Jumpstart delivers a research-based and cost-effective program by training college students and community volunteers to serve preschool-age children in low-income neighborhoods. Through a proven curriculum, these children develop the language and literacy skills they need to be ready for school, setting them on a path for lifelong success. Jumpstart is a proud member of the AmeriCorps national service network. Learn more about Jumpstart at www.jstart.org. Learn more about Jumpstart's Read for the Record atwww.jstart.org/readfortherecord.
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