Charlotte, N.C. (May 2, 2018) – Read Charlotte aims to keep reading top of mind for families across Charlotte-Mecklenburg this summer with its inaugural #SummerReadingCLT campaign.

According to the National Summer Learning Association, more than half of the reading gaps of 9th graders can be explained by summer learning loss during elementary school.

“Research shows that learning all year long is critical for student achievement,” explains Read Charlotte Executive Director Munro Richardson. “Students who don’t keep reading over summer break can fall one or more months behind, while their classmates who continue reading move further ahead. It’s alarming data but together, this community can empower families with the tools they need to keep kids reading and learning throughout the summer.”

At SummerReadingCLT.org, families can find helpful hints and new ideas to keep kids interested and engaged in reading, as well as links to free community programs and access to resources, all in one place.

For more information about achievement gaps and summer learning loss, read this Read Charlotte blog post.