Press
Educational Systems FCU recognizes students for designing award-winning posters to promote reading
GREENBELT, MD (March 23, 2015) — Educational Systems Federal Credit Union recognized five elementary and three middle school students for designing award winning posters promoting Read and Hit a Home Run. The Credit Union has been a longtime reading promoter and partner of this program with the Bowie Baysox.
Read and Hit a Home Run attracts many readers thanks to the help of educators at participating schools who support the program and track student reading progress during the school year. Students who read four books outside of the academic curriculum receive a free ticket to the reading night game at the Bowie Baysox stadium, and the opportunity to participate in a pre-game parade on the field where they receive a certificate. The poster contest winners have the additional honor of throwing the first pitch at the game.
Winners included: Marisa Beach from Central Elementary School, Desaray Green-Quartey from Arthur Middleton Elementary, Zoeii Strong from Forcey Christian School, Owen Corpus of Town Creek Elementary School, Ciara O’Conner from Trinity School, Kentisha Torries from Drew Freeman Middle School, Savannah Hersh of Plumb Point Middle School, and Sarah Ireland of Kennard Elementary School.
Educational Systems FCU has sponsored the Read and Hit a Home Run program with the Bowie Baysox since its inception in 2007. Each year as the program kicks off, students are encouraged to create posters to build awareness of the program and cultivate a love of reading, which correlates to increased academic achievement. The Bowie Baysox mascot, Louie, then announces the winners of the poster contest at each of the winners’ schools during a special rally.
“We are proud to sponsor a program that inspires students to become lifelong readers,” said Chris Conway, President/CEO of Educational Systems FCU. “Every one of the winning entries captured the heart of the reading program. It was an honor for us to attend each of the school rallies and recognize these talented artists and avid readers.”
Educational Systems FCU (esfcu.org) has proudly served the education community for nearly 60 years. With $760 million in assets and 12 branches, the Credit Union serves nearly 90,000 members in seven school systems and three community colleges throughout Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Montgomery, Prince George’s, St. Mary’s and Talbot counties.