FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Rep. Pritchard

March 17, 2011 815/748-3494

Illinois Reading Council Names Pritchard

2011 Legislator of the Year

Springfield , March 16, 2011—The Illinois Reading Council presented State Representative Bob Pritchard (R-Sycamore) with its Legislator of the Year Award during the group's state-wide conference in Springfield March 16. Pritchard was nominated by Kim McKenna, president of the Northern Illinois Reading Council, for his advocacy of literacy, support of education and work with students in the 70 th Legislative District.

“I am honored to be recognized by people who are in the front lines everyday teaching and promoting literacy not only for children but also all ages,” said Pritchard. “Reading creates power – power of imagination, power of improving skills which open new career opportunities, and power of creative thinking. I am committed to support the efforts of educators, librarians and citizens across the state who are helping people learn to read, improve their reading skills and use the power of reading.”

Since taking office, Rep. Pritchard has challenged elementary school children to take part in his summer reading club which requires them to read eight books and then celebrate and share their accomplishments at an ice cream party in August. He services on four House Education Committees and is Co-Chair of the Legislative Education Caucus. Pritchard has directed state appropriations to his district for library grants to improve the use of technology and is a strong supporter of the community Big Read Project.

The Illinois Reading Council (IRC) is among the largest and most vibrant literacy organizations in the country working to provide a rich variety of resources and programs for educators. In addition to a highly successful literacy conference held in Springfield, the IRC works throughout the year to support local reading council programs across the state.

###