First Lady Ann Scott Gets Back To Her Summer Literacy Adventure

By  //  July 8, 2015

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Surrounded by sparkling waters and abundant native wildlife of Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, First Lady Ann Scott today made her second stop on the 2015 Summer Literacy Adventure. (Image for SpaceCoastDaily)

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Surrounded by sparkling waters and abundant native wildlife of Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, First Lady Ann Scott today made her second stop on the 2015 Summer Literacy Adventure.

First Lady Scott read I am a Manatee by John Lithgow to students from area summer camps. The park showcases native Florida flora and fauna coupled with numerous recreational and environmental activities for families to enjoy.

Ann Scott
Ann Scott

“The Sunshine State offers so many exciting adventures in Florida’s magnificent state parks,” said First Lady Scott.

“Children can find excitement in literature and I encourage them to take the Summer Literacy Adventure pledge to read as many books as possible during the summer break.”

First Lady Scott was joined by representatives from the Florida Department of Education, the Florida Lottery and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Also attending were Dr. Sam Himmel, Superintendent of Citrus County Schools and Eric Head, Director of the Citrus County Library System. Snacks for the children and books were generously donated by the Florida Lottery.

Pam Stewart
Pam Stewart

“Reading and literacy are the stepping stones to success in school and in life,” said Education Commissioner Pam Stewart.

“I want to thank First Lady Scott for her commitment to helping students enhance their reading skills.”

Cynthia F. O'Connell
Cynthia F. O’Connell

“Reading can foster a love of learning through adventure,” said Lottery Secretary Cynthia O’Connell.

“The Florida Lottery is delighted to support the 2015 Summer Literacy Adventure.”

The 2015 Summer Literacy Adventure helps keep Florida students excited about reading and literacy.

Research shows that children who do not continue reading through the summer can lose a month or more of progress made during the school year.

By encouraging their children to read, parents play an important role in ensuring every child reads at or above grade level.

Donald Forgione
Donald Forgione

“Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is an amazing atmosphere for students to discover the joys of reading,” said Donald Forgione, director of the Florida Park Service.

“I welcome First Lady Scott and the children to one of Florida’s outstanding state park gems.”

Students can fill out their Summer Literacy Adventure Pledge form at 2015 Summer Literacy Adventure.

At the start of 2015 – 2016 academic year, First Lady Scott will visit the school whose students successfully completed the most pledges.