Savannah-Chatham County Public School System celebrates literacy with annual family event

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) -The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System is celebrating literacy in the community. The district held its eighth annual “Books, Blankets and Family Fun” event on Saturday.

Families were able to read together, pick up free books, and connect with schools and community partners. District leaders say events like this help build early literacy skills, setting students up for long-term academic success, while encouraging families to stay engaged. The district says it’s amazing to see young kids and families focused on literacy.

“One of the greatest things I’m seeing right now is a lot of youngsters, very young kids that are coming out. That’s so incredibly important because we can work with our families through events like this to instill the importance of reading early and the joy of reading,” said Kurt Hetager, chief public affairs officer for SCCPSS.

The district held the event on a Saturday to accommodate parents who work during the school week.

“We want parents and students to know that education extends far beyond the four walls of the school building. But also, we recognize that a lot of parents work during the school day, which is Monday through Friday. So why not have it on a Saturday where they can come out at their leisure and enjoy the festivities?” said Dr. Angie Lewis, executive director for the Office of College and Career Readiness.

The event also included food trucks, animals, and other entertainment for the whole family.