2 weeks Ago
Rock Island Academy will receive 100% of donations to the Snapdragon Book Foundation this month as part of its annual "Next Up" fundraising campaign. The Snapdragon Book Foundation, a nonprofit providing school grants to buy books for in-need students, aims to raise $1,500 in September to fully fund RIA's library project, titled "Building Literacy Opportunities for English Language Learners." Logo for the Snapdragon Book Foundation, a nationwide nonprofit providing schools with grants to buy books for in-need students.
Of RIA's total K-6 enrollment — nearly 500 students — 26% are English language learners, representing 35 different languages. The school's library project aims to create a culturally and linguistically diverse library by purchasing 117 books in languages such as Spanish, Swahili, Karen, Dari and Kirundi. "These books will empower students to connect with their cultural heritage, foster a love of reading and succeed academically," the Snapdragon Foundation website states.
"By donating to the Next Up fundraiser, you are helping to create a library where every student feels seen, valued and supported on their educational journey." Giving multilingual or ELL students access to books in their home language, at school, allows them to build their reading skills both at school and home. Research also shows that multilingual education and enrichment also greatly impacts these students' path to long-term academic proficiency and success.
Information on donating can be found on the Snapdragon website at snapdragonbookfoundation.org . The website, and the nonprofit's social media pages, will also carry updates about the fundraiser.
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