Town and Village Boards voice support for ‘Read to Lead Program’

The Newstead Town Board and Akron Village Boards have adopted resolutions in support of the “Read to Lead” initiative developed by Akron Central School student Audrey Garverick and supported by the Akron Central School Board of Education.

Audrey met with both boards last month requesting support of her effort to introduce leadership skills to elementary students statewide through a “Read to Lead Program” she developed for Akron Elementary.  Audrey records videos of her reading children’s books that include leadership skills for teachers and students to access.  The videos also include words of encouragement for the students.  She introduced her idea to New York State representatives during the February education lobby day in Albany and came to the boards for a letter of support she can include in future efforts to introduce the program to other districts and to ultimately have it integrated into education law.

The Village Board adopted a resolution of support at their April 6 meeting, and the Town Board adopted a resolution of support at their April 13 meeting.

“Read to Lead is an innovative, student-led program focused on cultivating leadership, empathy, emotional awareness, and a sense of belonging among elementary students,” the Town Board said.  “The Newstead Town Board had the privilege of hearing directly from Ms. Garverick and was inspired by her dedication, vision, and the positive impact this program can have on students and school culture.”

Both boards highlighted the importance of helping to prepare students to be engaged members of their community and to develop the skills needed for meaningful civic engagement.

“The Town of Newstead encourages continued support and expansion of programs that promote student leadership, character development, and positive school culture for the benefit of all students,” their resolution concluded.