Super Readers Squad (SRS) is a community of reading advocates dedicated to ensuring that reading is a skill in every Filipino. It is categorized as an education website based in Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte, Philippines. Super Readers Squad was established in 2018 by teacher fellows Sam Platon, Richmond Seladores and Kim Dela Cruz as a project to help the public schools in Sta Teresita Elementary School in Angeles City, Pampanga. Back when it started, it was able to collect and source a total of 1,630 books, benefitting 200 students which were presented through 5 mobile library carts. From Pampanga, it has expanded service to schools in Baler, Aurora; Del Carmen, Siargao and many other communities.
SRS focuses on literacy programs and has been collaborating with various educational and nonprofit organizations in the fulfillment of its goals. Among its partners are Teach for the Philippines, Angat Buhay, Jesse M. Robredo Foundation, Project ALON, and numerous other local organizations and government agencies, including the armed services in some of its beneficiary locations. It has a pool of youth volunteers who facilitates the conduct of special storytelling programs and read aloud sessions.
The main goal of this organization is to help children develop a personal, more meaningful and long lasting interest in reading, along with the hope of sparking curiosity in children, as a means to keep learning and exploring the world around them.
SRS spearheaded a series of community-centered reading programs, which eventually led to an award winning national literacy initiative helping children develop a love for reading by collecting and distributing books to communities all over the country. It is guided by the principle of volunteerism among the youth in making a ‘generation of dreamers and readers who will build the nation of tomorrow.’
In 2021 it has tied up with Shopee and Adarna House to sponsor bundles of storybooks which were distributed in time for the Christmas season.
SRS only goes to show that learning does not happen inside the fur corners of the classroom. There are alternative ways of encouraging children to engage time in reading and enriching their imagination. Despite the challenges brought about by digital technology, there are still far-flung areas in the country where children are devoid of their basic right to education.
Reading and storytelling programs by the Super Readers Squad helps to spark imagination and stimulate the curiosity of children. It also encourages communities to value books and stories which will become core knowledge of children as they grow up. The Abot Ko ang Libro program by the SRS brought life to this initiative.
In many ways, reading is a life skill. It is essential that reading is developed among children at a young age in order to thrive in whatever pursuit they will do and eventually leading to sustainable societies.
This Children’s Month, it would be good to revisit this basic foundation of literacy. Let us allow children’s imagination to wander and become part of stories. Let us help them widen their horizons and associate books and reading with positive experiences.
Become part and volunteer to become storytellers or donate and fund book drives. The Super Readers Squad may be reached through their Facebook page.
