Energy Express summer reading, nutrition program returns to Wood County | News, Sports, Jobs
The Energy Express summer reading and nutrition program will return to Wood County on Monday, June 15, to provide academic support and meals for more than 30 local children. Operated by West Virginia University (WVU) Extension, the Center for Community Engagement, and AmeriCorps, the six-week initiative aims to mitigate “summer slide,” a phenomenon where students lose academic progress during school breaks.
Addressing Summer Learning Loss
The program is specifically structured to help children entering first through sixth grades maintain their literacy skills. By providing a print-rich environment, participants engage in consistent reading, writing, and art activities throughout the summer months. According to WVU Extension, this approach serves approximately 1,000 children across 45 sites in West Virginia.
Beyond academic instruction, the program integrates nutritional support by providing healthy breakfasts and lunches. Each child also receives a new book to keep every week, a strategy designed to encourage reading habits outside of the classroom setting.
Community Involvement and Funding
The sustainability of the Wood County program relies on a combination of state-level funding and local partnerships. Major financial support is provided by WVU Extension, Volunteer West Virginia, and the West Virginia Department of Education’s Summer Food Service Program. Locally, the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation, the McDonough Foundation, WV Central Credit Union, and the Hanlon Family Fund contribute to the program’s operations.
Organizers are currently seeking volunteers from the Wood County area to assist with reading sessions, meal service, and supply donations. Project leaders note that the presence of familiar community members at program sites provides a significant benefit to the children involved.
What May Happen Next
As the June 15 start date approaches, organizers are focusing on recruitment and resource collection. If community volunteer numbers increase, the program could potentially expand its capacity or enhance the quality of student-to-mentor interaction at each site. Conversely, if local donation goals are not met, organizers may need to rely more heavily on existing state-level funding to maintain the current service levels for the 30-plus children enrolled in Wood County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Energy Express program?
The program is designed for children entering first through sixth grades.
How can community members support the program?
Interested individuals can volunteer to read to children, help serve meals, or donate supplies and funds by contacting Gwen Crum at 304-424-1969.
What is the primary goal of the program?
The program aims to prevent “summer slide” by maintaining literacy skills and providing healthy meals during the summer break.
How do you think consistent community involvement during summer months impacts a child’s academic confidence for the upcoming school year?