Milton school celebrates first Family Literacy Program

The Department of Education gave Milton Centennial School a family literacy grant worth $10,000.

Department of Education Adult Education Coordinator of the Skills Learning Branch, Martha Shinyei said the program is a first for Queens County.

The Family Literacy Program began in October.

With five families participating they had two sessions per week. “I think this is just a great, great partnership,” said Shinyei. “I think it’s been so well organized at the school,” she added. “It makes it just so right for this particular location.”

Marlene Duckworth with the Queens Learning Network said the program encourages parents to read and to encourage their children to read.

There are activities with the books to “make reading fun,” she added.

The program also teaches families how to read in a descriptive and exciting manner.

When asked why parents should participate in this program, Duckworth replied, “Because in this area there is a history of low literacy in adults as well as children, so this way we’re tackling both sides at the same time.”

Chrissy Huskins who took part in the program with her daughter Hanna estimated they were able to add over 20 books to their home library through the program.

The school’s library received new books as well.

Milton Centennial School Vice Principal, Roseanne Williams called the program “wonderful. “It supported both our students presently in school, our students who will be coming to our school as well as the parents,” she stated.

The school has received a second grant to hold the Family Literacy Program again in January.

Those interested can contact the school. “We’re really hopeful that this kind of programming can grow to start working in other parts of the region,” added Shinyei.