Syracuse University

Syracuse University proposes to concurrently support the development of literacy and innovation skills in children grades K-3 by creating and evaluating a replicable after-school project in six rural public libraries designed to prepare youth from an early age to contribute to the future economic viability of their communities. This program will emphasize the importance of family literacy, acknowledging the positive role parents and caretakers can play in shaping children's attitudes towards learning and literacy. The project features a carefully selected collection of paired literary and informational texts that inspire creativity and innovation. They will be disseminated via The Innovation Destination, an existing web resource, expanding the Site's current focus of grades 4-8 to include the elementary and middle years.