Caitlin Clark Teams with Scholastic to Boost Child Literacy

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever‘s rising star, is teaming up with Scholastic to donate 22,000 books to children in need, aiming to inspire a love for reading among young students. The initiative, announced Wednesday, coincides with Clark’s birthday and her jersey number, 22.

The books, intended for children from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, will be distributed to elementary schools, middle schools, children’s hospitals, and non-profit organizations, with a focus on Iowa and Indiana. Clark, a native of Iowa and now a professional basketball player in Indiana, emphasized the importance of reading in her own life.

“Reading and education have always been hugely important in my life,” Clark said in a statement. “I remember picking out books from the Scholastic flyer and how empowering that was for me as a child. I want to help kids have the same experience, to develop their reading skills and open their imaginations to dream big.”

The donation comes at a critical time. According to Scholastic’s most recent Kids & Family Reading Report, the percentage of children aged 6 to 17 who read five to seven days a week dropped from 37% in 2010 to 28% in 2022. Additionally, about 40% of U.S. students cannot read at a basic level, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress.

Judy Newman, Scholastic’s chief impact officer, praised Clark’s involvement. “Caitlin is a proven role model, and we are thrilled to work together with the Caitlin Clark Foundation to make reading more accessible to kids everywhere,” Newman said. “Access to quality books and positive reading role models are key to developing motivation and self-confidence and increasing literacy.”

Clark’s foundation focuses on three pillars: education, sports, and community. The book donation aligns with its mission to promote strong reading skills. Scholastic has previously partnered with NFL players to encourage reading, but this marks its first collaboration with a WNBA player.

Clark’s influence extends beyond the basketball court. Her popularity among young fans, particularly girls, positions her as a powerful advocate for literacy. Studies have shown that children who see role models reading are more likely to become frequent readers themselves.

The books will include a mix of new and popular titles designed to engage young readers. The initiative aims to counteract the decline in reading habits exacerbated by increased screen time and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Clark’s foundation expects to begin distributing the books in the coming months, with hopes of inspiring a new generation of readers.