A new summer program in Flagler County is designed to hopefully turn children into better readers and more effective communicators.

  • About 40 students involved in summer reading program
  • Program is mentored by Bethune-Cookman education students
  • "It's OK to do well in school," president of program said

Jeremiah Handberry said his expectations weren't very high when he started in the Children's Defense Fund Freedom summer school program.

"I was like, 'I don't know, I just don't like reading,'" he said. "I just wanted to stay home and enjoy my summer since I worked all year. But when I came here, I thought it would be some reading program where I would be bored and wish that I could just stay home. But then I saw we go outside, (have) lunch. I have people that I can talk to. It's pretty fun."

The teenager said he's spending the summer learning — and he's enjoying every minute of it.

"I'm learning more about my reading skills," he said. "They just help correct me if I say anything like the way I text."

Education students at Bethune-Cookman University are leading the six-week program.

Arnold Anderson, president of Inspiring Our Youth A-Game, helped bring the national program to Flagler County. He said the program contributes to student growth.

"A love for reading, a love for mentoring others," Anderson said.

About 40 students in fourth through eighth grades are getting the extra boost with reading abilities, character development and stronger family and school connections — specifically learning about African-American literature from interns who were selected as a reflection of the children.

"To help bring diversity and inclusion to our schools," Anderson said.

The students completed their first book within a few days of starting the program, and they'll read as many as six before the program finishes July 26.

"All of these things are all fun that we tie in, and that's all part of learning," Anderson said.

Handberry said he has much higher expectations for himself for next school year.

"I feel like I'm prepared,” he said. "I'll be able to set a goal for me and be able to achieve it."

Transportation and meals are provided to the program's participants. Anderson said he encourages members of the community to come out to Buddy Taylor Middle School and see what the program is all about.

"(It's) very important for our young people to see (that) it's OK to do well in school," Anderson said.