Many of you know, I own GradePower Learning center in Valrico, and for 8 years, I've helped young learners learn how to read and improve their reading skills. Which is why my vote to advance HB-3, "The New World's Reading Initiative," was so special to me. 

Today, as part of this program, parents at home can access thousands of free books, hone their child's reading skills, and unlock the magical world of books.

Additionally, the bill funds a state-match with local school boards to physically mail every student not meeting standards with a free book every month. This will help our most vulnerable students who may lack reading resources in the home close the achievement gap and excel.

Reading is one of the most important skills our kids can develop, and as an educator, I've seen first-hand the power of a new book that gets a struggling student excited to read, and that's why I'm proud to support this bill!