The Wayland Public Schools Foundation is set to launch its inaugural Reading Challenge—a community-focused event designed to spark a love of reading across all age groups while raising vital funds to support educational innovation. The challenge, which includes a virtual checklist and culminates in an in-person celebration on March 23 at the local middle school, promises an engaging mix of activities, local author appearances, and a community book swap.
A Vision for Community and Innovation
At the helm of this initiative is the president of the Wayland Public Schools Foundation, Blair Ramsey, who explained that the Reading Challenge is part of a broader effort to diversify fundraising activities beyond traditional appeals and events like the annual spelling bee. “We’re aiming to create an event that isn’t just for elementary students, but one that brings together middle and high school students, adults, and the wider community,” said Ramsey. The event is free to register—with a suggested donation in place—to ensure accessibility for all, especially families and young readers.
Engaging Across Ages and Interests
The virtual component of the challenge allows participants to download customized checklists tailored to different age groups—elementary, middle school, high school, and adults, encouraging a wide spectrum of reading experiences. Participants can earn entries into prize draws by checking off reading milestones and engaging with bonus activities. “This challenge is designed not only to boost literacy but also to foster a sense of unity among our schools and the larger community,” the foundation official added.
A Day of Activities and Local Talent
The in-person event on March 23 will be held in the spacious cafeteria of the middle school, ensuring ample room for social distancing and a safe, engaging environment. The festivities will feature activities led by local authors, including Wayland graduate Jarrett Lerner (https://jarrettlerner.com)—who has published 22 books spanning early readers to middle grade—and Giselle Shardlow, renowned for her innovative “yoga stories” that combine wellness and storytelling for kids. In addition to author sessions, families can participate in creative crafts, a spirited book swap, and other fun-filled activities designed to celebrate the joy of reading.
Fostering Awareness and Sustaining Support
For over four decades, the Wayland Public Schools Foundation has been the driving force behind funding initiatives that go beyond the school budget—supporting projects ranging from technology enhancements to unique educational tools like communication boards for non-verbal students. With declining returns from traditional fundraising appeals, the new Reading Challenge is an effort to revitalize community engagement, increase awareness of the foundation’s work, and secure much-needed funds for innovative projects. “Our goal is to make this an annual event that not only raises funds but also builds lasting connections within our community,” the foundation president noted.
With an anticipated participation of 300 community members from Wayland and beyond, organizers are optimistic that the Reading Challenge will become a beloved tradition—one that transforms how local residents engage with literacy and learning while supporting the future of education in the region.
For more information and to download the virtual reading checklist, visit the Wayland Public Schools Foundation website at https://www.waylandpublicschoolsfoundation.org/wpsf-reading-challenge.
