200 Charlton Pollard students reach "Advanced Reading" goals

BEAUMONT, TX – March 14, 2022- The Port of Beaumont, Urban Air and Charlton Pollard Elementary School teamed up to bring a new reading initiative to life. Students were informed in 2021 that any scholar who reached their advanced reading goals by March 4, 2022 qualified for an Urban Air party, exclusively for Charlton Pollard students, hosted by the Port of Beaumont. Approximately 200 students reached their goals; a 25% increase over 2021.

“We are thrilled to see how successful this reading incentive has been in its first year and with the momentum students have gained, we are confident 100% participation in next year’s Urban Air party is within reach,” said Commissioner Georgine Guillory. “The main goals are to instill a love of reading and improve literacy rates, and Charlton Pollard teachers and staff have done a great job motivating these students!”

The 200 Charlton Pollard Elementary School students were joined by Port Commissioners Pat Anderson and LaRue Smith, Beaumont ISD Trustee Joe Evans, and Charlton Pollard teacher chaperones. Pizza and fun, provided by the Port of Beaumont and Urban Air, and snacks and beverages, provided by ExxonMobil, made for an unforgettable, high-energy event celebrating Charlton Pollard students.

“The event was absolutely amazing,” said Charlton Pollard Principal Ariane Moore. “It showed our students that hard work equals great reward!”

“Reading enriches every child’s life, said Urban Air Owner Rachelle Nurse. “Urban Air Beaumont is honored to be able to partner with the Port of Beaumont and Charlton Pollard to incentivize the children in our community to read. We applaud each one of these students for their reading accomplishments.”

This unique incentive allowed students a rare opportunity to run, play, jump and celebrate with all of their closest friends, at one of the most exciting family-friendly spots in Beaumont.