Turning the Page Together: Celebrating Literacy Week in Citrus County Schools

Throughout Florida classrooms, and more importantly right here in our Citrus County Schools, we will be celebrating Literacy Week from January 26–30, 2026. Literacy Week is a statewide initiative designed to raise awareness about the importance of reading and to remind all of us, students, families, educators, and community members, that literacy is the foundation for lifelong learning. This annual event encourages reading not as a school assignment, but as a daily habit that opens doors, sparks curiosity, and builds confidence.

This year’s theme, “Read, White and Blue: Celebrating 250 Chapters of America,” honors the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. It is a fitting theme that connects literacy with history, civic responsibility, and our shared national story. Throughout the week, Citrus County schools will focus on books and literacy activities centered on American history, civic duty, and national landmarks. These lessons go beyond memorizing dates and facts. They invite students to explore ideas such as leadership, perseverance, service, and what it means to be an engaged citizen.

One of the great strengths of Literacy Week is how it brings learning to life. Reading about historical figures, important moments, and everyday people who shaped our country allows students to see history as a collection of real stories, not just chapters in a textbook. Through books, students can imagine themselves in different times and places, ask meaningful questions, and better understand their role in shaping the future.

On Monday, I will have the privilege of reading at Citrus Springs Elementary in Ms. Kristel Frati’s second grade classroom. This will mark the ninth year I have read in her class during Literacy Week, and it remains one of the highlights of my year. Walking into that classroom, seeing the excitement on students’ faces, and sharing stories together is a powerful reminder of why this work matters. It gives me the opportunity to connect with some of our remarkable students and to reinforce that reading is something to be enjoyed and celebrated.

One of the books I am reading with students is George Washington and the General’s Dog by Frank Murphy. This book tells the true story of George Washington’s beloved dog, a gift from a fellow general during the Revolutionary War. It is a wonderful example of how history can be made relatable and engaging for young readers. Through a simple story about kindness, responsibility, and loyalty, students learn about leadership and character in a way that resonates with them.

Literacy Week is organized by the Florida Department of Education through the Just Read, Florida! office, and each year it brings renewed focus to the simple but powerful act of reading together. Whether it is a student discovering their first favorite book, a family sharing a bedtime story, or a classroom diving into a new topic, these moments matter. They shape how children see themselves as learners and how they engage with the world around them.

Literacy Week is about more than one week on the calendar. It is a reminder that reading should be woven into everyday life at school and at home. I encourage families to take time this week to read together, talk about books, and visit your local library. In Citrus County, we are fortunate to have dedicated teachers, supportive families, and a community that values education.

As we celebrate Literacy Week and look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary, let us continue writing strong chapters for our students. By fostering a love of reading, we are helping them build the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed, not just in school, but in life.

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