Aboriginal Summer Literacy Camps successful in every way

"Every day my daughter had a new book to read and she wanted to read it with us. This is something I have never seen before."

TORONTO, Nov. 6, 2012 /CNW/ - This summer, Frontier College collaborated with provincial partners on the delivery of 26 Summer Literacy Camps in 23 Saskatchewan communities, offering a curriculum of fun, culturally-relevant learning activities. The camps supported the literacy development of 873 children (an increase of 15% over 2011) and offered employment for youth and adults in the local communities. In addition, campers took home a total of 15,424 free, high-quality children's books.

Feedback from campers, parents and staff affirmed the value of the camps in preventing summer learning loss and improving educational outcomes for students. More than 90% of parents reported an improvement in their child's attitude toward books and reading; other results included maintenance of skills over the summer months and increased reading in the home.

Frontier College has been operating Summer Literacy Camps in Aboriginal communities across Canada since 2005, and is proud of this year's growth in Saskatchewan.

"Our camps work because of our strong partnerships," says Frontier College President Sherry Campbell. "By working closely with the Aboriginal communities, the Saskatchewan school divisions as well as the Ministry of Education, we're ensuring that kids are developing a love of reading which is crucial to 21^st century learning."

Mark Williment, Superintendent of Education for Northern Lights School Division 13, also feels government support is key to the success of the program. "The Northern Lights School Division is most grateful for Ministry of Education funding for summer literacy camps."

Saskatchewan Education Minister Russ Marchuk is equally enthusiastic about the program. "The Summer Literacy Camps were again a success and the Government of Saskatchewan is proud to have supported this partnership that promotes a love of reading, language and story-telling, as well as community and family literacy," said Education Minister Russ Marchuk.

About Frontier College:

Frontier College is Canada's original literacy organization. Founded in 1899, this non-profit recruits and trains volunteers to deliver literacy programs to children, youth and adults in communities across the country. Frontier College helps Canadians improve their literacy and increase their opportunities.  www.frontiercollege.ca

SOURCE: Frontier College

Abby Robins, Director of Communications, Frontier College  
416-923-3591 ext. 378    

Mark Williment, Superintendent of Education
306-425-3302