BANGOR — Dirigo Reads, a program that aims to put a book in the hands of every Maine first grader each month during the school year is looking to increase the number of schools that will participate in the program. Dirigo Reads Chair and Co-Founder Dan Cashman says that new schools are being solicited and considered for the 2026-27 school year.
“Since this program began, we have heard over and over from parents, educators, and students themselves how important these books are,” Cashman said. “The foundation of a love for reading is built around first grade. By adding more schools, Dirigo Reads is giving the opportunity for more children to discover that love for reading.”
Dirigo Reads’ mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of children in Maine through literacy and share a little optimism along the way. This is accomplished by giving first graders in participating schools a brand new book to keep during every month of the school year. During the last school year, Dirigo Reads served more than 100 schools, reaching about 3,800 first graders. Over six school years, Dirigo Reads has distributed about 103,000 books to first graders in participating schools spread across all of Maine’s 16 counties.
This year, Dirigo Reads has been named as the beneficiary of the TD Beach to Beacon 10K. While regular registration is full, there are charity bibs available for those looking to run and raise money for Dirigo Reads through the Dirigo Reads website. Dirigo Reads joined TD Beach To Beach 10K Founder Joan Benoit Samuelson to visit Pond Cove Elementary School in Cape Elizabeth and announce the addition of that school to the program.
“Without partnerships, Dirigo Reads would not exist,” Cashman said. “Being chosen as the TD Beach to Beacon 10K beneficiary is an absolute game-changer for our organization. We are incredibly proud to be chosen, and we’re already seeing active fundraising taking place. As families know, books cost money. Opportunities like the TD Beach to Beacon 10K, and our longtime business partnerships ensure that kids have the best possible chance to fall in love with reading.”
Any schools interested in being a part of Dirigo Reads should visit www.DirigoReads.org and click on “Contact,” where a form is available to submit all necessary information. There is no cost to the schools, parents, or students. The program simply provides books to first graders throughout the school year.
Businesses are also invited to visit the website and click on “Contact” to submit information if they are looking to partner.
More details about Dirigo Reads participating schools, sponsors, and partners can also be found at https://dirigoreads.org/.