Learning to read is the single most important activity in a child’s education. Studies show that children who read at home are better prepared to succeed in formal education.
PARP is a program that asks a partner (parent, grandparent, babysitter, older sibling, cousin, friend, etc.) to read with a child for at least 20 minutes daily.
PARP, developed in 1978 by NYS Senator James Donovan, is a program that cements the necessary bond between the home and the school to encourage love of reading in our children. The program was originally named Parents As Reading Partners but was changed in 2015 to support more inclusive language.
PARP programs vary in length, there is no annual or required theme, and can run at little to no cost!
NYS PTA has created the Pick A Reading Partner (PARP) Toolkit (coming soon updated 2023-24 version) for your review! And Check out these great ideas on how to PARP in a Virtual Environment!
The primary objective is to encourage reading and other literacy-based activities in the home through recognition of PARP programs by: highlighting PARP programs; sharing outstanding PARP ideas with other PTAs/schools/libraries/communities and other parent groups; contributing to the understanding of the importance of reading and other literacy activities in the family setting and in the community.
New York State PTA units, schools (including pre-schools, non-PTA schools, non-public schools, middle schools and high schools), public libraries, community and parent groups may apply for this award.
The PARP award application will be evaluated according to the following criteria:
Applications must be postmarked (not metered) or emailed no later than May 15, 2023 to your Region Director. Application must be submitted to the Region Director of the PTA Region in which the program was held. Here is the list of PTA Region Directors and a map of New York State outlining PTA regions. Please email your Region Director for a mailing address.
State Winner: Region 12: Northeastern- Rensselaer Park Elementary PTA
Region Winners:
Region 19: Western- Cattaraugus-Little Valley PTA
Click Here to read a statement from the awards team.