(Office of the Second Lady Press Release, June 1, 2026)
On Monday, June 1, 2026, Second Lady Usha Vance announced the start of her second annual Summer Reading Challenge, which will run through September 4, 2026.
“I’m thrilled to bring back my Summer Reading Challenge for another year! The challenge will help kids fall in love with reading outside the classroom and stave off summer learning loss. Prizes and friendly competition will add to the fun. I’m so thankful to our partners, including the parents who are helping us make this a summer full of reading for kids across the country,” said Second Lady Usha Vance.
Ms. Vance launched the Summer Reading Challenge as part of her broader focus on childhood literacy. In 2024, only 31% of fourth graders and 30% of eighth graders were reading above the proficient level for their grade. Literacy levels decline even further over the course of the summer, as students may lose up to 2-3 months of reading skills that they acquired during the school year.
Over 20,000 children participated in last year’s pilot program, across all 50 states and multiple territories. This year’s expanded challenge features more partners, prizes, and a state-by-state leaderboard online.
To enter, children in grades K-8 can download a reading log online and submit it after they have read 12 books. Participants will receive a personalized certificate, America 250th-themed bookmark, prize, and chance to win a trip to visit the White House.
Please visit wh.gov/read for more information.
