Herbert Simon Family Foundation funds pilot project in three IPS schools
Three Indianapolis Public Schools have been chosen for the Herbert Simon Love of Reading Project, a two-year pilot that promotes a love of reading to increase the number of students reading at grade level. The project is funded by the Herbert Simon Family Foundation and supported by Central Indiana Community Foundation.
“Research shows the most successful way to improve reading achievement is to increase access to high-quality literature.”
Francis W. Parker Montessori School 56, Meredith Nicholson School 96 and Jonathan Jennings School 109 will receive funding to refresh each school’s existing media center, increase staff focused on literacy skill development and programming for the entire family, and expand book collections at school and home. The project aims to foster students’ literacy development early in life with a variety of resources and strategies, which is proven to increase high school graduation rates and creates pathways for career success.
Each school is currently assessing its specific needs and opportunities alongside a committee comprised of school staff, parents, students, members of the community and others. The pilot projects at each school will be completed and implemented for the 2019-2020 school year.
“Research shows the most successful way to improve reading achievement is to increase access to high-quality literature,” said Interim Superintendent Aleesia Johnson. “IPS is committed to making sure every student has that access, and we are tremendously grateful to the Herbert Simon Family Foundation for this boost toward our goal.”
The Love of Reading Project began when the Herbert Simon Family Foundation partnered with Central Indiana Community Foundation to develop a “Legacy Project” in Herbert Simon’s lifetime that honors his personal and philanthropic passion for literacy. Mr. Simon has said that books “saved his life” and he wants others to have the same experience.
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