Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) kicked off the 2013 Summer Reading Challenge by hosting his annual ice cream party for the 2012 challenge winners, Winfield Street Elementary School of the Corning-Painted Post School District. Winfield won last summer’s contest for having the most student involvement in the challenge as a percentage of enrollment.

“Every year, we learn more about the importance of kids staying active with their academics during summer vacation,” said Palmesano. “The summer reading challenge is a great way for kids to do just that, and I encourage all students to participate in this year’s program. Winfield Elementary had an excellent showing in last year’s challenge, and I really enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate with these bright young kids. I’m sure I will hear of many good things from these students in the future.”

To honor the school with the most participation in the Summer Reading Challenge, and offer a fun reward, Palmesano hosts an annual ice cream party for the elementary school that had the highest involvement, as a percentage of enrollment, the following June. Pictured above with Palmesano are several students from Winfield Street Elementary School, in the Corning-Painted Post School District, who were the Summer Reading Challenge winners for 2012. There is a lot to gain and nothing to lose, and Palmesano is encouraging all young students throughout the 132nd Assembly District to pick up their brochure for 2013.

“I am thrilled with the Winfield Scholar-Roo participation in the 2012 summer reading challenge. Last night, at a school event, we kicked off the 2013 Dig Into Reading Summer Reading Challenge in collaboration with the Southeast Steuben County Library, and I expect an increased participation in reading this summer. On behalf of all staff and Scholar-Roos, we thank Assemblyman Palmesano for the wonderful treat and recognition,” said Jennifer Batzing, Winfield Street Elementary School Principal.

“Assemblyman Palmesano is once again demonstrating his support for education through his support of the Dig Into Summer Reading program in collaboration with the Southeast Steuben Library. We are incredibly thankful for his efforts in demonstrating that education is important,” said Michael Ginalski, Corning-Painted Post Area School District Superintendent.

In conjunction with the New York State Library, the Summer Reading Challenge encourages kids to read for at least 15 minutes a day for a minimum of 40 days during July and August. To participate, students can get their brochure, which includes a calendar to track their progress, from their school or local library. Once completed, parents sign-off on their child’s involvement and send the completed participation calendar to Assemblyman Palmesano. Every student who completes the program will earn an Excellence in Reading Certificate from the assemblyman.