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Wood County Energy Express

About Us

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. 

Energy Express will run from  June 17 to July 26, 2024.

If you’re a parent looking to register your child for Energy Express,  contact your local WVU Extension office. Energy Express is offered in various counties at select  locations.

Download the Energy Express Child Enrollment Application

Connect with Us

Follow the Energy Express social media pages to stay up to date on all the information and news about Energy Express in your community and around the state! 

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Join Wood County Energy Express

Visit Energy Express for more about this summer reading program. To find out how you can volunteer or enroll a child in the program, contact Gwen Crum or call the WVU Extension Service Wood County Office at 304-424-1960.