Delaware Literacy Initiative Earned National Recognition

The Get Delaware Reading program was honored for its work in preventing summer learning loss among local students.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Primary Education

Gouache-painted illustration of a stack of books on a wooden surface, evoking the quiet academic focus of literacy programs. — The Library of Congress recognized the Get Delaware Reading program for its successful work in combating summer learning loss among Delaware students. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Library of Congress recently named the Get Delaware Reading initiative a 2026 Literacy Awards Success Practices Honoree. The program provides structured literacy support to students across the state to combat summer learning loss.

Why it matters

This award highlights an effective community-wide approach to maintaining academic progress outside the classroom. By integrating literacy into summer programming, the initiative helps ensure students do not experience the common regression known as summer learning loss.

The Get Delaware Reading initiative coordinates efforts across 16 school districts and 22 charter schools in approximately 60 locations. The program's effectiveness is tracked using pre-tests and post-tests, which documented student reading gains over the last two years.

The players

Library of Congress

The research library that serves the United States Congress and recognizes excellence in literacy programs through its annual awards.

Get Delaware Reading

A statewide initiative that coordinates school districts, charter schools, and community organizations to improve literacy outcomes.

The details

The program operates by embedding literacy assistance directly into existing summer camp schedules. Participating students engage in 30 minutes of dedicated reading three days per week to maintain and build their skills. This model relies on a collaborative network of over 20 organizations, including sites like the Claymont Community Center in North Wilmington and the First State Community Action center in Seaford.

The initiative was named a 2026 Literacy Awards Success Practices Honoree in 2026.

The Home Front

This state-level recognition aligns with broader national trends focusing on whole-community literacy ecosystems that bridge the gap between school years. It reinforces the shift toward integrating educational support into community-based summer infrastructure rather than relying solely on traditional classroom settings.

If you have school-aged children, check with your local district or summer camp provider to see if they offer integrated literacy programming. Staying consistent with reading habits during summer months is a proven way to support academic success throughout the school year.

The takeaway

Maintaining consistent reading habits during summer breaks is a vital way to prevent learning regression. Parents should inquire about community reading programs in their district to supplement at-home practice.