Even just being at Scholastic was incredible. I was surrounded by people like me all day – people who love books; people who dedicate their lives to promoting childhood literacy. Toward the end of my internship, Scholastic's CEO Dick Robinson announced that company would be launching a new mission statement, "Open a World of Possible," and I instantly became even more proud to work there.
'"Open a World of Possible points to independent reading as a doorway to imagination and discovery –
a way to motivate children to read and learn and realize themselves,'" said Robinson in his message about the new mission statement on the Scholastic website.
Open a World of Possible and the idea that it encapsulates is reflected in massive amounts of research. But simply launching a new mission statement isn't enough, and Scholastic knows that. That's why they've started a new social media campaign to promote their message using the hashtag, #sharepossible.
Scholastic is encouraging people to participate in the social media campaign on its website, stating:
"Open a World of Possible drives social engagement in classrooms, at home and online, so teachers,
parents and children can connect and share the pleasure of reading with each other. We’re connecting
and enabling you to help each other by sharing your best ideas and advice – like favorite books and
authors, ideas for read alouds, creative reading experiences – all the wonderful and inventive ways you
are encouraging independent reading in your classroom and at home. Share your best ideas and advice
at #sharepossible."
This revamped and updated mission statement reminds me that there are so many likeminded people out there who see the value in inspiring children to love reading. It reminds me why I am doing what I'm doing. It makes me hopeful, it makes me proud, and it makes me want to go pick up a book. So I think I'll leave you with an extended excerpt about the mission statement and go and do just that.
We believe that independent reading is a critical part of children’s learning and growth.
With support from teachers, parents, and schools, children choose from Scholastic
the books they want to read, and discover the pleasure and power of reading.
Finding the right book at the right time can light an emotional spark within
children that motivates them to read more, understand more, and read joyfully.
When that happens, the world opens. Everything becomes possible."