The Central High School literacy outreach program Athletes as Readers & Leaders needs new students to apply for membership as most of their participating athletes will graduate this year. The program, which sends high school athletes out to district elementary schools to inspire children to read and stay healthy, requires applicants to be in grades 10-12 and on a Central athletic team, including folklorico or cheer. Anyone interested in joining must pick up a packet in the beginning of the year from East teacher-librarian and ARL adviser Christine Flores in the library. 

Athletes as Readers & Leaders  has been a popular program since it started over 15 years ago. Flores explains, “It looks good on college applications, a resume, and counts towards community service hours.” Those who volunteer find the experience rewarding for other reasons as well. The athletes promote reading books, healthy life choices and answer questions the children have about being a high school student or athlete. Members admit that the questions can often be hilarious. Some of the kids have even asked for autographs. Volunteers say it’s a great experience being a role model for the children. Some members even recall ALR athletes coming out to inspire them when they were children. Junior baseball player, Ethan Baird has said, “When I was in 3rd grade, I remember the athletes coming to read to us. I just remember being so excited and how awesome it was and I always wanted to do it someday.”

Fill out an application today in the library to keep this worthwhile literacy program going. You’ll walk away from the experience knowing you’ve taught children that they don’t have to choose between being a great student or a great athlete – they can be both. Feel free to contact Ms. Flores for more information: [email protected]