Building strong reading skills early in life sets the foundation for lifelong learning, confidence, and success. Explore these literacy-focused programs and resources available in Martin County to help children thrive from the very start.
Martin Reads
Martin Reads is a community-wide campaign working to ensure all children in Martin County are reading on grade level by the end of third grade.
Why It Matters:
- Before 3rd grade, children learn to read. After 3rd grade, they read to learn.
- Children not reading on grade level by the end of third grade are 4x more likely not to graduate from high school.
- 74% of those who struggle to read proficiently by third grade fall behind in later grades.
- Each student who doesn’t graduate high school costs society an estimated $260,000 in lost earnings, productivity, and taxes.
- Reading is the most essential skill for lifelong success.
HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters)
HIPPY is a free, home-based early learning program that empowers parents to prepare their 2 to 4-year-old children for success in school. With just 20 minutes a day, parents can actively support their child’s development using fun and educational materials provided through the program.
We’re currently enrolling families in Zip Codes 34997 & 34956.
Contact: Mary Rodriguez, HIPPY Coordinator
maryrodriguez@usf.edu | (772) 288-5758 ext. 161
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
This beloved program mails free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five, no strings attached. Funded in part by Dolly Parton and local partners, the Imagination Library fosters a love of reading and helps plant seeds for a brighter future.
“The seeds of these dreams are often found in books, and the seeds you help plant in your community can grow across the world.” – Dolly Parton
- Available for all children ages 0–5 in Martin County