How does the state of Arizona predict how many prisons they will need in the future? They count how many 3rd graders are currently reading below grade level.

Although this story has been proven to be an urban myth, it still underscores the vital importance of learning how to read by 3rd grade. The ability to read and comprehend text is crucial to a child's ability to do well in school, especially in academic subjects such as science, math and literature. These are the classes that will lead to higher education, satisfying employment, and a healthy and prosperous adulthood.

To this end, BASIC (Basic Assistance to Students in the Community) recently graduated 17 parents from a nine-week course in Literacy for Toddlers, ages 0 – 2. This class, offered at the Community Resource Center, taught parents the value of reading daily to their children and included literacy skills such as tracking, interacting with the text and identifying author and illustrator.

At the end of each class, parents and children received a beautiful bilingual book to read at home. Each story had a controlled vocabulary which taught children their colors, shapes, numbers and so much more, all with the goal of preparing children for school. Homework for parents was to read this book each night with their children. In addition, each child received a small hand held interactive tablet to learn the basics for their first year in preschool.

BASIC has been working for over 30 years with our students through their "Cradle to Graduation Program" which focuses on ensuring academic success for every student in Borrego Springs. BASIC's highly effective services begin in preschool and continue through college including the Dolly Parton's Imaginary Library, BASIC's Summer Learning Academy and the rewarding of thousands of dollars in scholarships to attend university, community colleges or vocational schools.

This Latino Family Literacy Class was the result of a grant from the San Diego Foundation and Dr. Seuss Foundation to support Early Childhood Education. Teachers, Eddie Rivera and Martha Deichler, enjoyed interacting with not only 17 parents but also their 22 lively children who attended!

BASIC is excited to announce their annual fundraiser to support their efforts in our community. A Murder Mystery Theater/Dinner experience at the RoadRunner Golf Club is scheduled for January 26, 2024. Tickets may be purchased at BASIC's website: borregobasic.org.

Thank you in advance for your support.