Governor Bobby Jindal has proclaimed February 12-18, 2012, as Louisiana Literacy Week.

Monday, Feb. 13, will be Louisiana Literacy Day in which schools throughout the state will mark the day with the Great Louisiana read-in, a period of silent reading. The theme for this year is "Take the Lead and Read", and Zachary High School, did just that as they invited the community and Zachary School Board personnel to join them at the high school to participate.

During a 13-minute period, everyone at ZHS they were scheduled to Drop Everything And Read - D. E. A. R. time - from 10 -10:13 a.m. to show support for reading and literacy.

When the community and school board members, administrators, teachers, counselors, custodial and lunchroom staff stopped whatever they were doing to read, the children, who also joined in, realized that reading is important to all. Zachary High School implemented a Sustained Silent Reading (S.S.R.) program last school year, in which students dedicate 15 minutes at least once a day to S.S.R.

The Accelerated Reader program is also utilized to encourage reading success and provide students with recognition and rewards for their reading efforts.

The following activities from the Literacy and Community Projects Committee will take place at Zachary High School during this special week:

· PSA to local newspapers about Literacy Week

· Partner with local dignitaries to read at local schools

· Sponsor a bookmark contest

· Encourage families to have a "No TV" night

Zachary High School encourages other individuals, schools and organizations to participate in Louisiana Literacy Week. Let's make this year a model one by promoting literacy for all citizens in Louisiana.

For more information, please contact ZHS Principal Wes Watts by e-mailing wes.watts @zacharyschools.org or by calling 225-654-2776.