University of Mississippi Launches Children’s Literacy Project to Boost Early Childhood Literacy

Children’s Literacy Project Kicks Off at University of Mississippi

In Oxford, Mississippi, excitement is buzzing as a fresh initiative aims to tackle a crucial issue in our community—early childhood literacy. The Children’s Literacy Project, a newly registered student organization at the University of Mississippi (UM), is here to raise awareness about literacy among children. As the first student organization dedicated to this noble cause, they will hold their inaugural meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 5 p.m. in room 113 at the Lott Leadership Institute.

Free Pizza and a Worthy Cause

What can students expect when they show up? Well, besides plenty of insightful conversations, attendees will be treated to free pizza! This kickoff gathering will introduce members to the mission of the Children’s Literacy Project and outline upcoming activities that focus on improving childhood literacy. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn, engage, and contribute to a very important cause, all while enjoying some delicious food.

From Personal Experience to Action

The brain behind this inspiring initiative is Cate Drane, a junior majoring in public policy leadership and public health. Her journey to founding the Children’s Literacy Project stems from her own experiences moving between public and private schools in her youth. A native of Natchez, Mississippi, Drane recognized the pressing issue of literacy rates in the state when she began tutoring elementary students.

Statistics paint a telling picture. According to the 2024 Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KIDS COUNT Data Book, Mississippi ranks No. 30 nationwide in education—a notable improvement from being ranked No. 48 in 2014. Despite progress, the reality remains stark: the National Center for Education Statistics indicates that in 2022, 69% of fourth graders in the state were not proficient in reading, and nearly 37% did not meet basic reading standards.

A Journey of Impact

Drane’s heart for literacy blossomed while tutoring at Quitman Elementary School in Lambert, Mississippi, through Mission Acceleration. She described a touching moment where, “When I slowly had this one girl who was crying the first day because she didn’t understand a single sentence to being able to read chapter books by the end of the year, I knew that what I’m doing is actually making a difference.”

What’s in Store for Members?

The Children’s Literacy Project doesn’t just stop at awareness. It aims to equip its members with knowledge on the science of reading and provide opportunities for certifications. Drane envisions that by the end of the year, students will be able to leverage their certifications in real-world volunteer experiences. Interested members will also get the chance to engage with youth educational programs like Leap Frog and Mission Acceleration.

Leap Frog offers free after-school literacy programs for elementary students in the Lafayette-Oxford community, helping children become lifelong learners through enriching daily lessons. Meanwhile, Mission Acceleration is a statewide initiative geared towards boosting reading skills for students from Kindergarten to fifth grade, under the guidance of the Center for Excellence in Literacy Instruction at UM.

Invitation to the Community

Drane extends a warm invitation to students passionate about literacy. She encourages them to join the Children’s Literacy Project to connect with others who have the same goal and to get involved with organizations like Leap Frog and Mission Acceleration. Best of all, Drane assures prospective members that the time commitment is designed to be relaxed, allowing room for those eager to dive deeper into volunteer efforts.

Looking Ahead

The Children’s Literacy Project is also planning an exciting event this fall to raise funds for future volunteer initiatives in spring. Moreover, Drane hopes to expand the organization to other universities, including Jackson State University and Mississippi State University, to extend the reach of these vital literacy efforts across the state.

“It’s not just policy, it’s not just teaching kids how to read. It encompasses the complete picture of enhancing literacy,” Drane emphasizes passionately.

With such enthusiasm and determination, the Children’s Literacy Project is set to make a significant impact on the literacy landscape in Mississippi, and the University of Mississippi is fortunate to lead the charge.