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This week Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey released a public statement, inviting Alabama students to join her Summer Reading Challenge, encouraging children to include reading in their summer activities.

Ivey’s Summer Reading Challenge began May 21 and concludes July 31 and is open to all Alabama students from kindergarten through eighth grade for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. This includes public, private and home school students.

“Last year, many joined me for my Summer Reading Challenge, and I was inspired by the enthusiasm our students brought as they embarked on their reading adventures,” Ivey said. “This summer, I am, once again, inviting Alabama students to join me in reading. Together, we will participate in my Summer Reading Challenge, and I look forward to hearing from each and every one of our students about their summer literary adventure.”

To participate in the challenge, grade-eligible students must write a letter to Gov. Ivey, sharing what their preferred summer reading book was and why it was their favorite, whether it be assigned summer reading novels or books of choice. Students must also include their name, grade they are entering and school they attend.

“Our students worked hard in the classroom this school year, and I couldn’t be prouder of their efforts,” Ivey said. “Summer is a time to break from school but not from learning. To continue the growth and progress made, we must keep our student’s minds sharp by encouraging them to pick up books all summer long.”

Parents and teachers are also encouraged to get involved in the program by sharing what Alabama’s young learners are reading this summer to Instagram and tweeting the governor at @GovernorKayIvey using the hashtag #GKIsReadingChallenge. The Troy Public Library is located at 500 E. Walnut Street in Troy, while the Tupper Lightfoot Memorial Public Library is located at 164 S. Main Street in Brundidge.

Letters should be sent to the following address:

Governor Kay Ivey

Attn: Governor Ivey’s Summer Reading Challenge

600 Dexter Avenue

Montgomery, AL 36130