Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) is set to bring the excitement of the “Georgia Reads Campaign” directly to homes and classrooms across the state with a live stream of the official kick-off event on Georgia Reads Day, Monday, September 30, 2024. This event, hosted at the Georgia College Football Hall of Fame, marks the launch of a state-funded initiative focused on raising awareness about improving Georgia’s childhood and adult literacy rates.

Beginning at 10:00 AM, Georgia Public Broadcasting will provide live coverage, as former NFL player and literacy advocate Malcolm Mitchell addresses a crowd of over 300 second-graders and their teachers, emphasizing literacy's critical role in education and lifelong success. The broadcast will also feature a special reading of My Very Favorite Book In The Whole Wide World by Mitchell, who serves as the Georgia Reads Coach. Adding to the excitement, a magician will perform, bringing joy and wonder to the in-person and live streaming audiences.

Malcolm Mitchell, who has dedicated himself to promoting literacy since his time as a professional athlete, expressed his enthusiasm for the Reading Rally. “A community that reads together, succeeds together,” says Mitchell.

Malcolm Mitchell presents his book onstage, to the left of five additional speakers.

The Georgia Reads Campaign is designed to draw attention to the urgent need for improved literacy rates among all Georgians of all ages, with a particular focus on increasing students’ reading proficiency by the third grade. This campaign is an extension of SB211 Governor Brian Kemp signed into law, establishing the Georgia Council on Literacy. 

 

By providing educational resources, hosting community events, and engaging with students and families, the campaign aims to foster a love of reading and circumvent consequences for Georgians, as low achievement in reading affects our economy, our safety, and our health.

The GPB live stream of the Georgia Reads Day kick-off event will begin at 10:00 AM on Monday, September 30, 2024. For more information on how to watch, visit gpb.org/georgiareadsday. To learn more about the Georgia Reads Campaign and future events with the Georgia Council on Literacy, visit georgiareads.org or gosa.georgia.gov/georgia-council-literacy.