Carley Allen, Washington High School sophomore, reads to second-graders at Washington Park School Tuesday. Allen and several other Wash High athletes read to younger students as part of a 2nd & 7 program. The literacy program aims to provide children “a vist from a positive role model and a new book to take home, “ according to the program’s website.

Katie Roupe/Observer-Reporter Washington area students participate in the 2nd & 7 reading program. The program is funded by the 2nd & 7 reading foundation and provides books for second-graders. High school students read to the second-graders to encourage an interest in reading.

Washington Park School second-grader Samuel Craig listens intently as Wash High students read “The Hog Mollies and the Great Golden Gizmo.”