On Wednesday, Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr. participated in a reading event at the Martha F. Wilson Early Childhood Development Center as part of the Read Across America celebration. He was joined by Mayor Victor Carstarphen and State District Superintendent Alfonso Llano Jr., who also took part in reading to pre-kindergarten students.
“Strong literacy skills are essential for our children’s long-term development and academic success,” said Commissioner Director Cappelli. “Read Across America is an opportunity to remind our young people that in our increasingly digital world, there is still incredible value in the written word.”
This year’s event included an interactive ocean-themed story, presented with support from the Center for Aquatic Sciences. Students were able to observe a live horseshoe crab and examine shells and marine models, providing them with direct exposure to marine life and environmental education.
Students from Big Picture Learning Academy contributed by distributing more than 100 books to early childhood scholars as part of their senior exhibit project. This effort supported the district’s focus on literacy and encouraged peer mentorship among different grade levels.
The Read Across America program began in 1998 through the National Education Association. Its goal is to encourage children across the country to read by offering special activities, partnerships, and resources dedicated to reading.
Camden County, where this event took place, supports over 500,000 residents across 37 municipalities in southern New Jersey according to its official website. The county works on community welfare through education initiatives like this one, as well as workforce development and public services. It also maintains facilities such as parks, libraries, and nutrition centers for community well-being (source). Camden County operates under a seven-member Board of Commissioners who serve staggered three-year terms (source).
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