DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) – Governor Kay Ivey is encouraging Alabama students to take part in her 3rd Annual Summer Reading Challenge, which officially kicked off on the first day of summer.
The challenge runs through September 5, 2025, and is open to all Alabama students entering grades K through 8 for the upcoming school year, whether enrolled in public, private, or homeschool programs.
“Our students have earned a well-deserved summer break, but that doesn’t mean the learning stops,” said Governor Ivey. “Reading is one of the best ways to keep young minds sharp, and for the third year now, I’m proud to once again invite Alabama’s students to take part in my Summer Reading Challenge. I have heard from thousands of our students in the past, and I look forward to even more sharing their favorite reads with me this summer.”
To participate, students must write a letter to Governor Ivey sharing their favorite summer book and explaining why it stood out—whether it was part of an assigned reading list or chosen on their own. Letters must include the student’s name, upcoming grade level, and the school they attend.
Submissions should be mailed to:
Governor Kay Ivey
Attn: Governor Ivey’s Summer Reading Challenge
600 Dexter Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36130
Governor Ivey also voiced support for Second Lady Usha Vance’s national Summer Reading Challenge and encouraged Alabama families to consider joining both.
“The more we can do to keep our students reading, the better – and I’m proud to stand alongside Second Lady Usha Vance in encouraging that effort. I hope families across our state will take part in both our reading challenge here in Alabama and the national one led by our Second Lady. There’s no better way to spend the summer than with a good book, or two, OR twelve, in hand,” said Governor Ivey.
The national reading challenge asks K through 8th-grade students to read 12 books by September 5 and track their progress using a reading log. Students who complete the challenge may be eligible for a certificate, a prize, and a chance to win a trip to Washington, D.C.
