AT&T Foundation Supports Coffee County Government with $10,000 Contribution to Support Pilot Project for Literacy Coaching
Manchester, Tn., January 21, 2009 — The AT&T Foundation has announced a $10,000 contribution to support Coffee County Government. The contribution will help support the Pilot Project for Literacy Coaching to Families Involved with the 1st Grade Student. This program is designed to increase the reading skills of both the family members and the young child through individually focused coaching by first grade teachers and a skilled literacy coach.
“Focusing on early education is crucial for our state,” said State Senator Eric Stewart. “A program like Coffee County’s that involves both the student and the parent is just what we need to ensure the success of our next generation.”
“Community members working together can help students succeed,” said State Representative Judd Matheny. “We commend this unique program and those who make it possible.”
Coffee County government strives to address the many needs of its community by enhancing the quality of life through planning and visionary leadership. The Pilot Project for Literacy Coaching will involve first grade classes in two Coffee County schools, Hillsboro Elementary and College Street Elementary. The six month project will be a collaboration of the family, the student, the teacher and the literacy coach to improve the reading and comprehension skills of the first grader.
“Studies show the greatest, single correlate to success in school is the number of words read in meaningful, connected print,” said David Pennington, Mayor of Coffee County. “We know this program will help our students with both immediate and long-term achievement and appreciate the AT&T Foundation’s support.”
“Reading is the most important ability an individual can possess,” said Gregg Morton, President of AT&T Tennessee. “We appreciate Coffee County Government’s efforts to ensure their students develop in this area and are proud to join the endeavor.”
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