Reading — a community effort

It takes a village to support young readers.  And the “village” came together to support readers at Lost Hills School District.

After recognizing that many students were struggling to see and that this was impacting their learning, the principal and school nurse at Lost Hills spearheaded a local effort to get glasses to kids. Over the course of February and March 2024, 50 students received eye exams and a free pair of glasses, sponsored by Dr. Steven Ratty and Chevron.  Shortly after, students, teachers, and parents were noting the vision improvement.  One 8th-grade student commented "I can't believe it. Everything is clear!"  This endeavor is a real-life example of our community schools in action, working relentlessly to remove learning barriers.

Further, on March 1st 2024,  20 staff from Chevron visited the school to serve as volunteer readers as part of Read Across America events.  Chevron staff were excited to share their time and were impressed by the district's deliberate focus on a "reading culture" both inside and outside of school.  In addition to giving time, Chevron donated over 330 books for students to keep.  

Said one student "We're lucky to get Newberry Award books! These are the good ones."  Another student commented,

"This is the first hardcover book I own."

The Lost Hills' community school is only a community school because of students, parents, staff, and organizations like Chevron and Dr. Steve Ratty Optometrist Inc. coming together to support student learning.