Fort Valley Middle School is celebrating a major boost for its "On the Same Page" Literacy Initiative, thanks to a generous donation from Mrs. Ann Lanter. The school recently received 100 copies of the book Restart by Gordon Korman, a gift that will help ensure all 406 students can participate in this impactful program.
The "On the Same Page" initiative brings students, staff, and community members together to read the same book, fostering a shared experience and sparking meaningful conversations. The program includes various activities, such as a schoolwide book launch, weekly D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Read) sessions, standards-based activities, and reading challenges designed to deepen understanding and engagement with the book.
Mrs. Lanter, a retired reading specialist and a current member of the Peach Public Libraries Board of Trustees, has always understood the transformative power of books. Growing up in a rural area, her reading options were limited to a dictionary and a Bible at home. She cherished her trips to the local library, where she could check out new books and explore different worlds. This early love for reading shaped her career and her continued dedication to literacy.
"Mrs. Lanter's donation is more than just books; it's a gift of opportunity," said Literacy Coach Aiyesha Davis. "It allowed us to reach our goal of having a copy of Restart for every single one of our 406 students. This is a huge step for our literacy initiative, and we are incredibly grateful for her support and belief in our students."
The school extends a heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Lanter for this wonderful and impactful donation. Her generosity has not only provided the necessary resources for this program but has also inspired the entire school community to embrace the joy of reading together.