The Roanoke Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.’s Educational Committee, through its EMBODI (Empowering Males to Build Opportunities and Develop Independently) program, held a 30-day summer reading initiative for African American Males entitled, “Black Boys Read.” This program was created in support of President Obama’s “My Brother’s Keeper Initiative.” Research clearly states that children grades 1-3“learn to read” and after third grade “they read to learn.” In addition, the projected number of prisons that will be needed as well as graduation rates are based upon third grade reading levels. It was also hoped that this program would eliminate the “summer educational lag.”
The Delta leaders were fortunate to have 24 youngsters participate in this program, thanks to Coach Richard Wilson (who coaches a 4th grade basketball team through the Roanoke Hawks) for enrolling all 11 members of his team! Several other program readers were members of other AAU basketball and football teams.
Each youngster (ranging from kindergarten to fifth grade) was asked to read 15 books independently, over the 30 days — the month of July gave them one extra day–in order to receive $15. Everyone complied and a total of 360 books were read.
The program culminated August 6 at Little Champions Learning Academy where they received certificates, gifts and their $15.00. The chapter deeply appreciates the young men, their parents and the coaches for their respective participation in this program.
Diane Jones is the chapter president; Stacie Wright is the Educational Chair. Jean Dixon and Gloria Manns are the EMBODI and reading program facilitators.
