What We Do
Cocky's Reading Express™ is the University of South Carolina’s literacy outreach program. USC students travel the state with their friend, Cocky, visiting elementary schools across South Carolina. The students read to the children, and Cocky helps the children understand the importance of life-long reading.
The program primarily serves students in 4K through second grade because research shows that if children acquire strong reading skills and a love of reading by the end of second grade they are more likely to succeed academically and graduate on time. Our priority is reaching students in under served public schools.
All the children are given a book to take home, a reminder of their visit from Cocky and the USC students. The USC students know they are making reading fun — one Gamecock at a time.
Schedule
Friday, May 25
Eagle Nest Elementary School
Friday, May 31
Chapin Library - Summer Reading program kickoff
Saturday, June 2 - StoryfestSC
10 a.m. – Noon; SC State Museum
Friday, June 29
6 – 7 p.m.; My Amigos Bilingual Educational Center
St. David’s Church
*Dates subject to change.
Volunteers
Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year. Join us for a couple of hours or an entire day. It’s up to you! Email Christine Shelek for more details: christineshelek@sc.edu
Our Sponsors
Julie and Mike Brenan, Bi-Lo, Boeing, BB&T, BP, Central Carolina Community Foundation, Colonial Life, Nexsen Pruet, Southern Way Catering, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, The Michael Jeffcoat Firm, SCE&G.
In the News
2,000 kids joined together at the Statehouse for SC Read-In Day
BP donates $25,000 to Cocky's Reading Express
Students get Cocky about reading
SEC Success Story: ESPN feature on Cocky's Reading Express (video)