Senate Passes Collins, Reed Resolution Declaring Today "Read Across America Day"

Washington, D.C. —U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Jack Reed (D-RI) renewed their commitment to encouraging healthy reading habits among young Americans by introducing a bipartisan resolution designating today, March 2, 2018, as “Read Across America Day.” The resolution was unanimously passed by the Senate.

“Read Across America Day is an opportunity for Americans of all ages to appreciate the joys as well as the educational benefits of reading,” said Senator Collins.  “Through my visits to more than 200 Maine elementary and secondary schools, I have seen firsthand the important role reading has in helping students achieve academic and lifelong success.  My own involvement with reading initiatives with Maine students has shown me that reading is the best way for children to love learning and can help unlock young people’s full potential.  I commend parents and educators for teaching children how enjoyable reading can be and instilling enduring reading habits.”

“Literacy is the foundation of all learning.  Read Across America Day highlights the importance of reading for children’s development and academic success,” said Senator Reed.  “Read Across America Day also encourages adults to set a good example by picking up a book and helping instill a love of reading in children.”

Now celebrating its 21st year, Read Across America is an annual event sponsored by the National Education Association (NEA) and partner organizations that seeks to motivate children and teens to improve their literacy skills.  The event coincides with the birthday of Theodor Geisel, better known by his pseudonym “Dr. Seuss,” who was a prolific writer of popular children’s stories.  On the weekday closest to Geisel’s birthday, the NEA helps organize events and activities in schools throughout the U.S. that emphasize the importance of reading and the enjoyment it brings year-round.