Summer Literacy Program Opens In Prince George's Co.

UPPER MARLBORO, Md. (AP) -- A new summer literacy program has begun serving students in Prince George's County.

The Washington Post reports 100 students began studying Monday in the six-week program designed to address reading problems among middle school students.

The program is one of 131 Freedom Schools operating nationwide. It's a partnership between Howard University, the county school system and the nonprofit Community Builders of Maryland. The program is sponsored by the Children's Defense Fund.

Howard students will serve as teachers and mentors for at-risk and low-income youth.

Howard University Interim President Wayne Frederick says the goal is to engage students and instill a love of reading while getting more students on track for college.

Two other Freedom Schools are operating in Montgomery County and two in the District of Columbia.

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