‘It’s time to start a reading revolution in VI’ – Sharie B.Y. de Castro
“It’s time to start a Reading Revolution! Too many children in the territory are struggling with reading because they lack foundational literacy skills that are vital to achieve success in every subject area,” said Ms de Castro.
However, Ms de Castro highlighted that reading is not only necessary for individuals to achieve academic or professional excellence but it is also a significant and impactful activity that improves and elevates the entire country. “Yes, the quality of our education system dictates the progress of our country. However, more precisely, Literacy is at the centre of the development and growth of this country. I say this because learning can only be achieved if our students master reading and writing skills.”
It is from this realisation that Ms de Castro’s business Write To Read was birthed to help individuals to achieve academic excellence through reading. Write To Read provides individualised intervention for students in the dynamics of reading and writing through its afterschool programme.
Illiteracy can lead to indiscipline
Ms de Castro said, “For some children, interest in reading or academic achievement has been lost. Their deficiency in literacy skills makes it difficult for them to keep up with the curriculum.” She further explained, “This disengagement can lead to student misbehaviour that requires disciplinary action as a means of avoiding the humiliation in class due to the lack of foundational literacy skills.”
Ms de Castro believes that the future of these Virgin Islands is dependent on the actions that we take now. She stated that this Reading Revolution can be an overwhelming success through cooperation from students and parents and collaboration with schools, community organisations and the private and public sectors.
Throughout this school year Write To Read will host events and launch activities and challenges to engage everyone in this Reading Revolution. Some of these include the Strike Out Illiteracy Bowling Tournament, School Reading Challenges and Book Fairs to name a few.
Parents are encouraged to invest in their child’s future by helping them to catch up, keep up, or get ahead this school year by enrolling them in the Write To Read Afterschool Programme which begins on September 19, 2016. Businesses and organisations are also encouraged to invest in the future of the Virgin Islands through participation, partnership and donations in support of literacy.
Interested persons can acquire more information by emailing writetoreadbvi@gmail.com or calling 442-7335. Happy International Literacy Day!
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8 Responses to “‘It’s time to start a reading revolution in VI’ – Sharie B.Y. de Castro”
Moreover, in addition to reading and writing, the VI must also focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics( STEM).
This dynamic, innovative, and progressive young lady needs the support of the entire territory in her efforts.
I do not know this young lady personally, but if we are looking to change the trajectory of education in our Virgin Islands, based on proven theories, she seems to be on the right track. I am behind this young lady 101%. Keep pushing forward regardless of the negatives. Always take into account the 80/20 Rule. Discernment Required.
Work on the Ministry of Education to subsidize some of the programs being introduced for parents who would like their child to participate to their future possibilities.