CAHOKIA – State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) spent Friday afternoon reading books to children at the Cahokia Public Library to encourage students to read during the summer.

“I had a wonderful afternoon reading to kids and encouraging them to become stronger readers,” Belt said. “It’s important for children to continue learning over the summer, so they don’t lose the knowledge gained the prior school year.”

Belt is launching a summer book club to counteract summer learning loss for students during the summer months.

The summer book club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books and return a form to Belt’s office by Aug. 11. Senator Belt will host a pizza party for everyone who finishes reading their books. 

Book club forms are available at SenatorBelt.com to download and print. Parents can also contact the district office at 618-875-1212 to have a form mailed.

“Education is a top legislative priority for me,” Belt said. “Working and ensuring kids are able to learn and grow is essential for their future.”