March is National Reading Month, dedicated to fostering a love of reading and highlighting the importance of reading for adults and children alike. During my time in the Legislature, I’ve become acutely aware of the challenges we face in achieving reading proficiency among our students. It is no secret that reading proficiency in Alaskan students is not where we want it to be. Parents, lawmakers and educators must continue to emphasize the importance of literacy and give our children the necessary tools to succeed.

In response to the lower proficiency scores, I started my “Reading with the Representative” initiative two years ago. This program encourages students and parents to engage in reading activities that enhance student literacy skills. Last fall, I read to a total of 774 students in Kenai and Soldotna, and I handed out reading certificates to a total of 1,333 students. I also read to a similar number of students in 2023.

My goal with this Reading initiative is simply to add my voice to the chorus of teachers and parents who daily encourage students to read. Strong literacy skills developed in elementary grades have a significant impact on all subjects as the student grows older.

While the most prominent aspect of this program is reading to students, it also provides me with an opportunity to talk with teachers and principals and hear about the work they do every day. The reality is that while I spend a limited amount of time reading to children, parents are a driving force behind their children’s reading proficiency, and their involvement is imperative. My hope is the reading certificates will serve as a reminder to parents and students to pick up a book and read more.

Many local projects and initiatives promote reading proficiency and offer support to parents. The Soldotna Public Library’s 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is a fun and free way to start your child on the path to success. Any child from birth to 5 years old is eligible to participate. By reading just one book a night, you can reach this goal in under three years.

The Kenai Community Library hosts a Preschool Storytime for children ages 3-5 and an Early Readers Book Club for ages 5-10, which are excellent resources for encouraging reading in a group setting. Participate in these events, set family reading goals, and explore new genres or authors.

I welcome the opportunity to discuss reading, education and other state issues with you. I will be hosting a joint town hall next week with Sen. Jesse Bjorkman and Rep. Bill Elam from 10 a.m. to noon on March 29 at the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly Chambers. I hope to see you there. If you cannot make it to the town hall, please don’t hesitate to contact my office by emailing Rep.Justin.Ruffridge@akleg.gov or calling 907-465-2693 if you have any questions or comments.