Assemblywoman Buttenschon to Launch Statewide Summer Reading Challenge at Marcy
Elementary School, Encouraging Students to “Unearth a Story” Through Reading
WHAT:
Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon will visit Marcy Elementary School to officially launch the New York State
Assembly’s 2026 Summer Reading Challenge, inviting students to “Unearth a Story” through reading this summer. During
the event, Assemblywoman Buttenschon will participate in a school-wide assembly to distribute reading guides, and
encourage young readers to embark on summer literary adventures that spark curiosity, creativity, and imagination. This
year’s challenge theme, Unearth a Story, celebrates the excitement of discovery, inspiring children to explore new worlds,
uncover hidden histories, and dig deeper into the stories that shape our communities and understanding of the world around us.
WHEN:
Friday, June 12, 2026
2:15 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
WHERE:
Marcy Elementary School
9479 Maynard Drive
Marcy, New York 13403
WHY:
Research consistently shows that regular reading during the summer helps students maintain academic progress,
strengthens literacy skills, and builds confidence in the classroom. By promoting reading as both an educational tool and a
source of enjoyment, the challenge helps prevent summer learning loss while encouraging lifelong learning habits.
The New York State Assembly Summer Reading Challenge encourages students in grades K–6 to read for at least 15
minutes a day for 40 days during July and August. Participants track their progress using an official reading calendar and,
upon completion, receive a New York State Assembly Excellence in Reading Certificate recognizing their achievement.
The 2026 theme, Unearth a Story, highlights the joy of discovery through reading and encourages children to explore
subjects such as history, science, archaeology, paleontology, and their own local communities. By opening a book, young
readers can uncover new ideas, perspectives, and adventures while strengthening critical literacy skills.
