WHAT/WHO: Mayor Vincent C. Gray, other DC officials, students from several District day-care centers and schools and senior adults will launch the “Read and Learn This Summer” emphasis, part of the Mayor’s comprehensive “One City Summer Fun … Something for Everyone” summer initiative.

WHEN: Thursday, June 16, 2011, 10:00 am

WHERE: Deanwood Neighborhood Library
1350 49th Street NE

BACKGROUND: "Read and Learn this Summer” will encourage residents of all ages to take advantage of educational programs that cover everything from summer reading for children to adult literacy. Students who don’t read or participate in literacy-related activities like museum visits over the summer lose, on average, the equivalent of up to one month’s worth of instruction. Students from low-income or disadvantaged backgrounds can lose two months’ worth of instruction. In addition, many adults who struggle with reading are unable to qualify for many entry-level or career-track jobs.