Governor Napolitano – Public-private partnerships provide free books

As Governor I’ve worked to give our children the educational foundation they need to succeed – an effort that often begins with teaching literacy. Because literacy is so important in ensuring educational success, I am pleased that 2007 marks the fifth consecutive year of my free book program.

Each year, this program provides every first and fourth grade student in the state with a new book to keep and share with family members, to promote reading and encourage parental involvement in their child’s learning – all at no cost to taxpayers.

When the program began in 2003, I began providing a new book to every first grader throughout the state. In 2005 I was able to expand the program to include a book for every fourth grader. Around 750,000 free books have gone to students in Arizona since the start of the program.

The emphasis this program places on literacy sends a clear message to students and their families about the importance of reading. As a result, it gives the children of Arizona an excellent shot at success in the future.

This literacy program is a wonderful example of a public-private partnership that moves forward an important priority for Arizona completely on private donations. Private sponsorship by McDonald’s, HSBC-North America and APS paid for all costs associated with printing and distributing this year’s fourth grade book, “Grand Canyon: Exploring a Natural Wonder” by Wendell Minor. All three corporate sponsors have been part of the fourth grade book program since it began in 2005.

The Helios Education Foundation joined Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold, Inc. this year as sponsors of “The Gingerbread Cowboy” by Janet Squires. This book will be given to 100,000 first grade students. Freeport-McMoRan, formerly Phelps Dodge, has been involved with the book program since it began.

I offer my sincere thanks to these sponsors for their investment in children and the Arizona community. I also want to thank the many school superintendents, teachers and staff members around the state who are helping me put these books in children’s hands.

If you have a first or fourth grader at home, I hope you and your children enjoy these books together, and I encourage parents with children of all ages to check out some new bestsellers or classic favorites and rediscover how much there is to learn and love when you read.

As always, I appreciate your input, and encourage you to call my office at (602) 542-1318 if you have questions or thoughts to share. Or visit our Web site at www.azgovernor.gov for information and news on state government.

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