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Read with Us. Lead with Us.
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The Story Behind the Community Leader Reader Program
When a community leader sits down with a book and a room full of preschoolers, something powerful happens. Eyes go wide. Imaginations take off. And children see that the people shaping their city also believe in the power of a story.
What Is the Community Leader Reader Program?
The Community Leader Reader Program invites local leaders — elected officials, business owners, nonprofit directors, educators, and civic champions — into our Starting Small preschool classroom to read aloud to young learners.
It's simple. It's joyful. And it sends a message that echoes far beyond the classroom: literacy matters, and our community stands behind it.
Why It Matters
Lynn's children deserve to see leadership and literacy go hand in hand. When a mayor, a school committee member, or a local business owner takes the time to sit with a child and share a book, it tells that child their learning is valued by the whole community — not just their teachers and parents.
For our preschoolers in Starting Small, these visits spark curiosity, build confidence, and create memories that last. For leaders, it's a chance to connect with the community at its most hopeful — right where futures are beginning to take shape.
What to Expect
A visit typically lasts about 30 minutes. You'll be welcomed into our Starting Small classroom at 17 Atlantic Street in Lynn, choose from a selection of children's books (or bring a personal favorite), and read to a small group of 3-to-5-year-olds who are ready to hang on every word. Our teachers will be right there with you — no experience required, just a willingness to have fun and share in the joy of reading.
We'll also capture the moment with photos and, with your permission, share your visit on our social media channels — a great way to show your community what leadership in action looks like.
Who Should Sign Up?
This program is for anyone in a leadership role who wants to make a visible, personal commitment to literacy in Lynn — including mayors and city councilors, school committee members, business owners and executives, nonprofit and community organization leaders, faith leaders, first responders, and college administrators.
If you lead in Lynn, we'd love to have you read in Lynn.
Ready to Read?
Sign up below and our team will reach out to schedule your classroom visit. It takes 30 minutes, costs nothing, and means everything to a child just starting their reading journey.