Rep. Mark Ouimet Kicks-Off Second Annual 'Legislator for a Day' Contest

With "March is Reading Month" officially over, state Rep. Mark Ouimet, R-Scio Township, has announced he wants to further encourage young people to enjoy reading by participating in his second annual summer reading contest.

Ouimet visited local elementary schools during March to read to students, and wants young students to continue reading to help retain and improve their reading skills. 

"March is Reading Month is a great time to raise awareness about the benefits of reading, but it should be encouraged throughout the year, especially the summer months," he said.  "With spring officially here and summer around the corner, I want to give young people an added incentive to read this summer."

The contest starts in June after the school year is over. Students can submit the titles of their completed books and the pages read by email at markouimet@house.mi.gov. Emails should include "Summer Reading Contest" in the subject line. 

Each submission is another entry in the contest, so students are encouraged to read early and often. Two students who read the most books from each local school will travel to the state capitol as “lawmakers for a day” and participate in mock legislative activities.

"The contest is a great way to encourage reading while giving young people an inside look into the legislative process," Ouimet said. "With this being our second event, we're hoping for even more participation this year."

The rules of the contest include:

• The contest is open to students who will be starting grades four through seven this fall.
• Once you complete a book, ask a parent to email the book title and number of pages.
• Winners will be chosen based on the number of pages read, so the more you read, the better your chances of winning.
• Winners and their parents will be invited to a Junior Legislator for Day event in the fall at the state capitol.

Parents with questions about the contest can contact Ouimet toll free at 1-855-627-5052.