Sierra Vista, Arizona (KGUN) — Fort Huachuca and the Cochise County Superintendent work together to help students find their passion for reading.

Garrison Commander John Ives and Superintendent Jackie Cray are working with educators, businesses and parents to create a countywide book club. Increasing the number of grade-level appropriate books that students are reading. Ives said he hopes the program will inspire children to find a lifelong passion for reading.

“When we talk about dreaming big, we want people to look at us and say you’re crazy,” Ives said. They need more books. “

Book clubs reward students based on the number of books read. Now, Clay and Ives are working with community leaders and educators to brainstorm ideas, get feedback, and find people to help lead the way. Once we have a strong group of book club leaders, we can launch a countywide program.

“This is just the beginning of great things,” Clay said.

According to Clay, 38% of third graders in Cochise County read at a third grade reading level, which is lower than the state average. Ives and Clay say that improving the percentage will help improve the county’s education ratings. Clay said students are learning to read from grades 1 through 3. From 4th grade through her 12th grade, the student is reading to learn.

Ives and Clay want to officially start the program as soon as they have people to help lead the book club.