TLRN Presents: The Texas Panhandle Service Project

Texas Panhandle — The Leaders Readers Network (TLRN) has launched an exciting new partnership with West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) aimed at enhancing literacy efforts in the Amarillo and Canyon areas. This collaboration connects local educators and students, fostering a love for reading and improving access to books within the community. Under the leadership of Patrick Miller, Regional Director for the Texas Panhandle, and Dr. Carolyn Baum, WTAMU professor and Attebury Honors Program Advisor, the initiative employs WTAMU's Attebury Honors Scholars as mentors and reading buddies. These dedicated students are stepping into local elementary schools, hosting engaging read-aloud sessions and providing books to young readers, ensuring every child has their very own copy.

In a show of appreciation for teachers’ hard work, the program also supplies valuable educational resources to educators, enhancing their literacy instruction. This support underscores the crucial role teachers play in their students’ reading development. Aiming high, the partnership intends to distribute over 1,000 books to local students. By nurturing a culture of reading, the initiative hopes to significantly boost both academic performance and personal growth among young learners.

Recently, TLRN celebrated its achievements with the Attebury Honors Program at WTAMU, delivering new books to 124 students at Lakeview Elementary. Following this success, the team is eager to return for upcoming read-aloud events. A special thank you goes out to Lakeview Elementary for its inspirational leadership in this initiative, which is vital for improving literacy rates. Additionally, TLRN has made strides by providing new books to 163 students at Whittier Elementary, further contributing to the increase in literacy across the community. The extraordinary opportunity to provide service to Whittier Elementary is due to the exemplary leadership of the administrators and staff members employed there.

WTAMU students involved in the program shared their enthusiasm for the experience. Ava Haddock expressed her delight, saying, “It was so fun seeing the kids so energetic and having an anecdote for every single page during the read-aloud. It was just super fun to experience.” 

Honors Scholar Audrey Adkison emphasized the importance of literacy, stating, “Literacy is important because it brings all people together.” Anna Ng added, “Literacy is one of the most important elements in a student's ability to learn,” highlighting the foundational role reading plays in education.

Casen Lucas reflected on the excitement of the children: “They are so excited. They are hungry to learn, and that helps me to want to be even more engaged. Being able to read makes you a leader, and it's the cornerstone of the future.”

The partnership between TLRN and WTAMU shines as a testament to their shared commitment to improving literacy and education in the community. By instilling a passion for reading, they aim to cultivate the next generation of leaders right here in the Texas Panhandle. As this impactful initiative progresses, TLRN will provide updates and offer opportunities for community members to join the effort in supporting literacy. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young readers.

For more information, stay tuned to our website and follow our journey on our various social media accounts! You can also spread the joy of literacy during Panhandle Gives from November 25 through December 3, 2024. For more information, please visit this link to explore funding opportunities.

Visit this link to learn more about how you can get involved.