Would you like to help inspire students to read? The annual Hickory Creek Middle School Rebecca Caudill Young Readers Book Award celebration does just that. Each year for the past ten years, approximately 600 sixth through eighth grade students read the minimum of three books to qualify as a judge to determine their favorite book through this state program. Many students read all 20 of the nominated titles. The culmination of the program is the annual voting celebration where students enjoy fun, food and prizes. This year’s event will be held on February 21 at the school at 22150 W. 116th Avenue in Frankfort.
The District 157-C Education Foundation generously supports this program through its grant process, however, additional volunteers and prizes are needed to make the voting celebration a huge success. Those wishing to donate to the celebration are welcome to help. Cash, checks (made out to Hickory Creek Middle School with “R. Caudill” in notes) or gift cards will be accepted at the school through Friday, February 14. Any denomination gift cards for food, music, entertainment, books, etc. are welcome, as are Barnes & Noble gift cards in $5 increments. Volunteers will be able to sign up online at www.fsd157c.org to help the day of the celebration.
The program’s annual award is given to the author of the book voted most outstanding by students in grades four through eight in participating Illinois schools. The program was developed to encourage children and young adults to read for personal satisfaction. The award is named in honor of author Rebecca Caudill who lived and wrote in Urbana, Illinois for nearly 50 years. The list of book titles and more information about the program can be found at the website www.rcyrba.org.
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Under the direction of coordinators librarian Marybeth Raynes and teacher Renee’ Grady, students are challenged to read as many books as they can from a master list. Students can qualify as official judges by reading three or more of the 20 nominated titles. All judges will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite title and help chose the 2014 Caudill book for Illinois.
