TESTIMONIALS
What Authors, Families, Educators, and Sponsors Are Saying About the S.T.E.A.M. Race to Space Reading Challenge
AUTHOR ACCOLADES
"This is an excellent program for Orange County students and educators, and I hope it reaches far and wide."
"The Reading Challenge was impeccably organized. I had the opportunity to create a video for students, participate on a panel answering thoughtful, pointed questions, and virtually meet wonderful picture book authors."
"Our goal with our new book was to show young readers how exciting and entertaining STEAM-driven stories can be. Pat and her team put together an incredible event in support of the same goal."
"My co-author, Heather Einhorn, and I had a great time being interviewed for the virtual event. We were delighted to attend — thanks for having us!"
"It was a delight to be a part of this well-oiled machine. I felt so very well prepared from all your emails, and it ran like a dream."
"Thanks so much for including me in your awesome Reading Challenge. Huge congratulations and well-deserved kudos to you and your entire team!!!"
FAMILY HIGHLIGHTS
Inspiring Lifelong Learning
"This incredible program inspired my son to keep exploring his passion for science. It’s made an amazing impact on children and teens — thank you!"
Carolina G.
Parent
Making Reading a Family Adventure
"We had such a great time searching for the books at our library and reading a bunch of them — thanks for the Reading Challenge!"
Olivia W.
Parent
Fueling Curiosity Through Reading
"The recommended book lists gave us so many great ideas! I loved seeing my kids' enthusiasm for space and science through the books. We look forward to the next Reading Challenge."
Michelle H.
Parent
CLASSROOM APPLAUSE
"This is the type of event that really helps students connect the relevance of STEAM to the outside or real world. The fact many authors were willing to connect with the students also attracted me to this challenge."
"The Reading Challenge caught my attention because it was able to tie in STEAM with literacy. Thanks for providing so many resources for our students and staff. I know that I will be purchasing books from the list you have provided that were STEAM related."
Dr. Alma Noche
Principal, Walnut STEAM Academy
"As a class, we are now participating in the NASA Future Engineers Lunabotics contest because the Reading Challenge inspired me to find these opportunities for the students to reach outside the classroom and dream a little while they learn!"
"My students created stories, learned songs, and did SPACE art projects on this day. We even worked with our Fifth Grade big buddy class to learn the names and the order of the planets in our Solar System. After the contest, several students went on to do the personal reading challenge as well."
Carol Hansen, Ed.D.
Teacher, de Portola Elementary
"The desire of our teachers to expose their students to STEAM centered literature was a key factor in the Race to Space Reading Challenge, and this was the perfect opportunity to get students researching, reading, and discussing STEAM topics centered around books."
"Our English teacher, Eileen Pray, created the motivation and desire within our students to read, and students were thrilled when they realized they had opportunities to win prizes for reading in class."
David Young
Principal, Serrano Intermediate
SPONSOR PRAISE
"We hope more brands can join us and inspire these future leaders to read more."
"Bazic Products supported the Reading Challenge with prizes, and I had the pleasure of attending the Splashdown celebration. It was amazing to see the students, meet the families, and celebrate their hard work.
We will be a continuous sponsor!"
Joseph Lumi
Marketing Manager, Bazic Products
"Join us in inspiring children to read — today's children are tomorrow's future."
"I was honored to attend the Splashdown celebration. Meeting the student winners and their families absolutely touched my heart.
San Diego Wildlife Alliance Press will continue to be a partner and donate prizes again this year."
Georgeanne Irvine
Children's Book Author & Director of Publishing, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
