As a PE teacher, I’ve always cared about helping students grow — not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too. Over the years, I’ve seen how much reading can impact a child’s confidence, both in school and at home.

I’m not a reading teacher, but reading has always been close to my heart. My mom, who adopted my twin brother and me after caring for us as our NICU nurse, made sure books were a part of our lives from the very beginning. She showed us that reading could be a quiet strength and something that opens doors, sparks imagination, and helps you believe in yourself.

Even though she’s no longer with us, her love and belief in the power of reading continue through this program.

R.I.T. SQUAD™ Readers in Training is simply my way of offering support to families, to educators, and to students by encouraging reading both at home and in school.

I hope it helps kids feel seen, supported, and inspired to keep turning the page and to grow a true love for reading.