The past two years have exacerbated existing literacy challenges and inequities and contributed to a drop in reading fluency for many students, especially English language learners and those with learning differences. To level the playing field for all learners and support educators and students during a challenging time, Microsoft developed… Read More

Guest blog post written by Morgan Bluma, First Book Marketing and Communications Assistant. Morgan graduated from American University with a double major in Literature and Journalism. Over the years, technology has become a major tool for learning, with many children adjusting to remote learning in recent years. Boosting… Read More

At the beginning of a new school year, creating a classroom and a space where students and families feel welcome and comfortable is important. As we enter the second school year amidst a global pandemic, First Book has taken extra care to create resources and space for educators working diligently… Read More

Guest blog post written by Anya Gizis, First Book Development Intern. Anya is currently studying political economics at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. When you help students develop empathy, set goals, and manage their emotions, you’re boosting their overall academic progress. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) creates comfort… Read More

Morgan Bluma is the Marketing and Communications Intern for First Book. She graduated from American University with a double major in Literature and Journalism.  First Book’s National Book Bank is a great and affordable option for our Network educators serving kids in need,… Read More

In 2016, Pizza Hut partnered with First Book to implement a 10-year campaign, expanding its commitment to literacy and reading with a coordinated fundraising and community engagement effort that would enable access to resources, empower teachers, and inspire reading on a global scale. Three years later, in 2019,… Read More

For many of us, Earth Day reminds of our childhood lessons to Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and perhaps recalls memories of school-wide competitions, for which homeroom could bring in the most recycled items. Pizza parties for the win! But now, Earth Day is and can be so much more, with many… Read More

Long-time educators and new Marketplace shoppers know that First Book is on a mission to build a path out of poverty through educational equity. Brand-new books are an essential part of the work we do, but the Marketplace also boasts additional supplies that go beyond books to help learners of… Read More

In a recent survey of educators, we asked our network of educators about the impact of COVID-19 on students. The results show that kids are preoccupied with the pandemic, worried about their friends and family, and concerned about their own health. The survey confirmed what teachers and parents already know—the… Read More

Daylight saving time officially started this week, which means spring is just around the corner. As you might spring clean your home, now is a great time to spring clean your bookshelf and evaluate if your classroom library celebrates and explores different identities and lived experiences. Spring cleaning your classroom… Read More