Alabama Students Invited to Join Governor Kay Ivey’s 3rd Annual Summer Reading Challenge

On the first day of summer, Governor Kay Ivey is calling on all students in grades K–8 to join her Third Annual Summer Reading Challenge. She also encouraged families to check out Second Lady Usha Vance’s national reading contest.

“Our students have earned a well‑deserved summer break, but that doesn’t mean the learning stops,” Governor Ivey said. “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 … and I look forward to even more sharing their favorite reads with me this summer.”

The reading contest runs through September 5, 2025, and is open to any rising K–8 student in public, private or homeschool. All participants need to write a letter to Governor Ivey with:

• Their favorite summer read and why they loved it
• Their name, upcoming grade, and school

Letters should be mailed to:
Governor Kay Ivey
Attn: Governor Ivey’s Summer Reading Challenge
600 Dexter Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36130

Governor Ivey also shined a spotlight on the Second Lady’s 2025 Summer Reading Challenge, which asks kids nationwide to read 12 books by September 5 and use a reading log. Those who finish could earn a certificate, a prize, and even a chance to visit Washington, D.C.

“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,” Governor Ivey said. “I hope families across our state will take part in both our reading challenge here in Alabama and the national one … There’s no better way to spend the summer than with a good book, or two, OR twelve, in hand.”

Second Lady Usha Vance described her challenge as a fun way to inspire reading. Starting June 1 through September 5, students simply read, track their books, and share their progress. Everyone who completes it gets a certificate and prize. Some will even win a trip to Washington, D.C.

Alabama students are encouraged to take advantage of both reading programs. With personal letters for Governor Ivey and national entries for the Second Lady, this summer is shaping up to be full of stories, imagination—and maybe a trip to D.C. for a few lucky readers.