News Releases

First Lady Karen Baldacci to share her favorite books with USM's summer readers

July 17, 2006

Maine's First Lady Karen Baldacci will visit USM's Summer Reading and Writing Clinic at 10:15 a.m., this Tuesday, July 18, to read from one of her favorite children's books.

Established in 1970, USM's Reading and Writing Clinic is part of a graduate course in the Master's in Literacy Program. USM graduate students serve as tutors for K-11 students, who receive a five-week, individualized literacy program. This summer, 66 students from Biddeford, Buxton, Cape Elizabeth, Gorham, Poland, Portland, Raymond, Saco, Scarborough and Westbrook are enrolled.

Baldacci spearheaded Maine Reads, a program dedicated to advancing literacy in children and adults by coordinating reading programs, schools, libraries, volunteers and other literacy partners.

Dean Betty Lou Whitford of USM's College of Education and Human Development said, "We are excited to host Mrs. Baldacci and introduce her to our best-practices model of literacy education. It is one of the ways USM is helping to meet Maine's priority education needs."

DETAILS:

WHAT: Karen Baldacci to read to K-11 students enrolled in USM Summer Reading Clinic.

WHEN: 10:15 to 10:45 a.m., this Tuesday, July 18.

WHERE: USM, Gorham Campus Library, Bailey Hall. Bailey Hall is the large classroom
building on the left as you drive on campus from the College Ave. entrance. The
library is located in the front of the building.

MORE INFORMATION: Please call Judie O'Malley or Bob Caswell of USM Public Affairs at 207-780-4200, or Peter Lancia, USM Reading and Writing Clinic co-director, at 207-780-5400.

>more news releases