Assemblyman Philip Ramos (D-Central Islip) gathered with over 50 students and their family members from Bay Shore, Brentwood and Central Islip schools to acknowledge the students’ completion of the New York State Assembly Summer Reading Challenge. The ceremony was held on Thursday, Feb. 26, in the Central Islip High School Little Theater.

The reading challenge is a way to encourage reading among students of all ages, Ramos said. To complete the challenge, students and their families must read together every day throughout the summer and return a marked-off calendar to Assemblyman Ramos’ District Office. Those who are successful receive a certificate at a ceremony held by Assemblyman Ramos.

“It is so important for our children to grow up with a love of reading,” Ramos said. “The Summer Reading Challenge helps to show them that reading can be fun so that hopefully, they will continue reading even after the challenge has ended.”

Ramos, who is a member of the Assembly Education Committee, has sponsored the Summer Reading Challenge every year since being elected to the Assembly.

“Assemblyman Ramos’ commitment to the children of Central Islip has been unwavering,” said Paul Facchiano, director of the Central Islip Public Library. “We are fortunate to have a representative who truly understands the value of education.”

Ramos explained this year he received several letters from students who wanted to share with him how the program helped them get better grades in school and how much fun reading books has become.

“Helping children find enjoyment through books has been a highlight in my career as Assemblyman,” Ramos said. “Every year it is such a pleasure to meet these students and their families and to recognize and honor their effort and commitment to reading.”