WVU Extension Service Taylor County

Energy Express is a free award-winning, six-week, summer reading and nutrition program for children in first through sixth grades living in West Virginia¿s rural and low-income communities. This program aims to prevent the ¿summer slide,¿ in which children regress in their reading skills because they aren¿t learning during the summer.

During Energy Express, children statewide increase or maintain their reading levels through creative, colorful and captivating uses of books, art, drama and vocabulary. Volunteers, mentors and staff create a print-rich environment where students have access to books and printed materials, opportunities to read and write, and the chance to explore the meaning of text through engaging activities. Daily read-alouds and take-home books are a staple at Energy Express. This unique approach makes reading interesting and fun for students, motivating them to continue learning.

Our program also provides children with two nutritious meals each day during the program, helping to ensure our youths are fed each day even after the school year comes to an end.