On a recent Tuesday morning, 8th grader, Love, sat shoulder to shoulder with her book buddy, patiently guiding him through a reading activity. She slowed down, sounded out each word with him, and offered lots of encouragement.

Moments like this are happening every day at Anna Julia Cooper School.

March brings Read Across America Week, but at AJC, building confident readers is much more than a once-a-year celebration—it’s a daily commitment. From one-on-one support for our youngest learners to middle school reading buddies who show up week after week as volunteers, students are surrounded by people who believe in their growth.

8th grader, Love, works with her Kindergarten reading buddy.

6th grader, Lauren, working toward her personal literacy goals.

Our Title I Reading Specialist works with K–2 students daily, and our growing wrap-around literacy program provides speech therapy and targeted reading support—all right here at school, and free of charge for families. Our dedicated teachers and librarian create spaces that nurture a love of reading and help students see themselves as capable readers.

It’s a true team effort—teachers, specialists, volunteers, and families working together to support every child’s success. And it wouldn’t be possible without you. Thank you for your support, and for cheering on our resilient students.