TITLE: Recognizing February 22, 2017, as Literacy Education Day.

SUMMARY: Recognizing February 22, 2017, as Literacy Education Day.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join the Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts and Texans across the state in celebrating February 22, 2017, as Literacy Education Day at the Capitol; and WHEREAS, The Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts was founded in 1965 to advance the literacy of Texas students by fostering a collaborative community of professionals who learn, explore, and implement research-based instructional practices to positively affect student success; and WHEREAS, Literacy is the foundation upon which practically every facet of daily life is based; from following a prescription to participating in a religious service, from sending an e-mail to following directions on a sign, the ability to read is an essential part of navigating today's complex world; and WHEREAS, Adults who are low in literacy are more likely to find themselves living in poverty; they are also less able to meet the health care needs of their families, less likely to participate in civic affairs, and more likely to find themselves caught up in the criminal justice system; and WHEREAS, More than 50,000 Texas educators teach in the English language arts and reading field; it is through their dedication to their work that Texans are able to participate fully in society; it is truly fitting that a day be set aside to pay tribute to their invaluable efforts in the advancement of education; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby commend the Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts on its commitment to promoting literacy and extend to its members best wishes for a productive and memorable Literacy Education Day at the Capitol; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of this special occasion. Garcia President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 22, 2017.