CATCH-UP FRIDAYS: BRIDGING THE READING GAP FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE

KRYSTAL ANN C. MAGLALANG

$s educators, we are alwa\s looNing for new and creative wa\s to motivate and enhance our students educational e[periences 7he 'epartment of (ducation s e[cellent program, &atch 8p )ri da\s, has become a s\mbol of change and hope for the field of reading instruction 7his ground breaNing initiative closes academic gaps while revitali]ing literac\ pathwa\s and encouraging a passion for reading outside of the classroom

7he 'epartment of (ducation s 'ep(d innovative &atch 8p )rida\s program acNnowledges the important function that reading pla\s in a student s academic career 7his proMect is to create a d\namic and engaging environment where students can catch up on their reading abilities, stud\ a variet\ of literar\ genres, and acTuire a profound appreciation for the written word ,t is designed to overcome gaps in literac\ and comprehension

7he collaborative spirit which &atch 8p )rida\s creates among educators is one of its important characteristics (Tuipped with a burning desire to promote literac\, educators Moin to e[change best techniTues, creative instructional strategies, and educational materials ,n addition to increasing the initiatives effectiveness, this cooperative effort establishes a strong communit\ in which educators encourage one another to tr\ fresh opportunities in developing a love of reading

7o clear up, &atch 8p )rida\s is more than Must a program²it s a transforming wa\ toward a culture that values literac\ and enlightenment $s teachers, we have direct e[perience with the helpful changes it brings about in our students lives %\ means of this endeavor, we are collaborativel\ molding a future in which ever\ child, irrespective of their origins, can reach unprecedented heights b\ strength of the transformative potential of reading

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7he author is 7eacher ,,, at &ua\an (lementar\ 6chool 'ep(d

'ivision of $ngeles &it\