NEWS

Partnership with Children is proud to have participated in Skype’s Read Aloud program, a part of the company’s Skype in the Classroom initiative. The Read Aloud movement brings authors, celebrities, and inspirational business leaders into the classroom via Skype video calls to read a story aloud, working to promote literacy and inspire a love of reading among students of all ages every day. A number of well-known industry leaders are participating in the Skype Read Aloud movement, including Natalie Morales, a Today Show anchor; Barbara Bush , the daughter of US President George Bush; Jennie Finch, former US Olympic softball player, and Peggy Conlone, President & CEO of the Ad Council.

Constance C.R. White, author, fashion journalist and 2013 Partnership with Children Gala Honoree, is a participating reader in the program. Ms. White chose to read to a group of scholars at our partner school, the South Bronx Academy for Applied Media (SBAAM). On Monday, May 20th, Ms. White read selected excerpts from the book she co-edited, Essence: A Salute to Michelle Obama, which chronicles the First Lady’s achievements and her journey to the White House.

Ms. White spoke to the scholars about the time she spent with Mrs. Obama and what it was like to interview the United States’ first African-American First Lady. SBAAM scholars had the opportunity to ask Ms. White questions about Mrs. Obama and to learn more about Michelle Obama’s own childhood and path to success.