On February 29th, 2024, Sacajawea Elementary School was transformed into a hub of excitement and learning as CapEd Credit Union and United Way of Treasure Valley, in collaboration with the City of Caldwell and Caldwell School District, hosted a memorable Family Literacy Night. The event, aimed at promoting children’s literacy and fostering community engagement, drew families from across the region to participate in an evening of reading, learning, and fun.
Anne Wolverton, Director of Community Resources at United Way of Treasure Valley, expressed her delight at witnessing the joy in the students' eyes as they interacted with college athletes from CWI and Caldwell Mayor Jarom Wagoner, who took turns reading to them in the school library. Participants read and listened to beloved stories like “Hugo and the Impossible Thing,” “Let’s eat! ¡A comer!” and “Jeff Goes Wild.”
Wolverton remarked, "It was truly inspiring to see individuals that these children admire, demonstrating the importance of higher education and community involvement." She also highlighted the inclusive nature of the event, noting that nearly all the books featured bilingual content, reflecting the school's commitment to inclusivity.
Reading proficiently by the end of third grade is the single most important indicator of a child’s future success. By incorporating reading into family and community engagement events, the Caldwell School District shines a light on the importance of reading as a family.
Tim Jackson, President and CEO of United Way of Treasure Valley, emphasized the significance of reading as a means for parents to connect with their children. He stated, "Reading is a wonderful way for parents to connect with their children in a fun and meaningful way," underscoring the importance of fostering a love for reading from an early age.
The success of this year’s Family Literacy Night at Sacajawea Elementary School shows the power of collaboration between community organizations, educational institutions, and local government in promoting literacy and building stronger, more connected communities. By investing in initiatives like these, we not only enrich the lives of children, but also lay the groundwork for a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
*We wish to extend a huge thank you to Jolyn Laney of Laney Photography for photographing this event.