Mayor’s backpacks aimed at improving early literacy

Wayman Early Learning Academy sits across the street from the Eureka Garden Apartments, a subsidized, drug-plagued housing complex on the west side of Jacksonville. Many of Eureka's low-income youngsters attend the child care center on the grounds of the Wayman Chapel AME Church. It’s no wonder that when the bright blue, green and yellow backpacks of Mayor Peyton’s Book Club arrive, “it’s like Christmas time,” says Regina Lee, the center’s director. Stuffed with books, a hand puppet, reading blanket, flash cards, T-shirt and other items, the backpacks go to any 4-year-old in Jacksonville who wants one, rich or poor. In its fourth year, the program is beginning to be emulated in other cities as part of a growing effort to improve early literacy. Read about the successful program at usatoday.com.