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Our club has a long-standing partnership with Richard J. Wilson Elementary (RJW), a Title One, bilingual school that is part of FWISD. Approximately 95% of the students are economically disadvantaged. Over the years, our club has purchased technology, classroom equipment, library furniture, dictionaries and supplies based on priority needs identified by the school's administration. We host events six times a year called Rotary Club Star Student Celebrations. The Celebrations culminate in an end-of-the-year bike-give-away to one deserving student at each grade level. We annually hold a teacher appreciation at the end of the year. We believe our club's involvement with RJW makes a significant difference in addressing the educational needs and wellbeing of these students.
This year, RJW's principal and librarian have requested that our club underwrite the cost of students participating in Battle of the Books, a districtwide reading incentive program for elementary grades 3rd through 5th. Throughout the school year, students read a committee-chosen list of books and then compete as a team with other schools to test their knowledge and comprehension.
Also, to encourage reading, RJW would like to create a Reading Area within their library that offers flexible seating. This enhancement would provide students with a quiet and comfortable environment for reading. It would benefit not only student competitors (Battle of the Books), but the entire student body, as the library serves as a shared resource that is accessible to all students on a weekly basis.
Costs for RJW's participation in Battle of the Books and the Reading Area are attached.
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