FY 2014 Popular Annual Financial Report FY 2014 Popular Annual Financial Report | Page 17

Reading and Literacy Programs Reach More, New Families The Arlington Public Library reached a record number of students and their parents through its Summer Reading Program. Almost 6,000 students and more than 1,100 adults took part, which included a citywide treasure hunt. Officials recommend at least 20 minutes of reading a day to maintain literacy, especially over the summer hiatus from school. The Arlington Public Library worked with teen parents in the “Life Through Literacy” program to teach them the importance of reading, speaking and singing to their children to better prepare them for school and work in the future. The young parents also are taught that encouraging positive experiences with books can help foster a love of reading as a child grows older. Summer Reading Program Leaders Attend National Education Summit Arlington Mayor Dr. Robert Cluck and AISD Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos attended the “Mayors in Education Convening” in Washington, D.C. The event — co-hosted by the U.S Conference of Mayors and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation — included topics about education initiatives, school New Viridian Elementary School finance and driving economic development through education reform. Mayor Cluck said the visit provided an opportunity for local leaders to convene with other education experts, noting that the City’s goal is to design and implement strategies to boost college and career readiness. Viridian School Last fall, the newest elementary school in Arlington, Viridian Elementary School, opened to 540 students. The school has a Spanish immersion curriculum, an acclaimed music program and instruction in several world languages and cultures. The school serves the new Viridian master-planned community and is part of the HurstEuless-Bedford School District. Popular Annual Financial Report | 17