December 2023 LEEF Invests $17,000 to Support its Early Childhood Literacy Initiative

The Leander Educational Excellence Foundation (LEEF) has been busy this month spreading cheer and joy throughout Leander ISD. With the support of several local community businesses, LEEF invested $17,000 across Leander ISD’s 7 Title 1 elementary campuses. As a result of over $5,000 raised at the Blue Corn Harvest Chile Fest this fall both Camacho and Bagdad Elementary received $2,500 to purchase Spanish books. The W.D. Kelley Foundation joined LEEF on its surprise patrol to award both Knowles and Faubion Elementary $2,500 each to purchase books for the library. Kitchell Foundation granted $2,000 to Giddens Elementary for Spanish books in the classroom. Both Reed Elementary and Grandview Hills will receive $2,500, thanks to our long-time community partner Photo Texas Photography.

Research conducted in 2022 by Curriculum Associates shows that 33% of 3rd graders are not reading at grade level. Early literacy is a cornerstone of LEEF’s funding initiatives, and with the help of community partners like these, we are able to make an impact to work at lowering that statistic. Teachers in Title 1 campuses have the day-to-day responsibility of fostering a love of reading for each student by providing intentional and explicit planning. Research shows for students in Title 1 campuses to improve reading skills and develop a love for reading it is critical to be intentional with book choice to increase student engagement. The request for new books is an ongoing need at every campus and LEEF is grateful to be able to make a difference at our campuses most in need today.