Scholastic Shapes Cultural Milestones for Canadian Children

Scholastic has become a significant presence in Canadian education since its inception, shaping cultural milestones for generations of children. The company connects young readers with books through various innovative initiatives.

Scholastic’s Journey in Canada

Founded in 1920 in Pennsylvania by Maurice R. “Robbie” Robinson, Scholastic began its journey as a magazine publisher for young readers. In 1926, it published its first book. The company’s pivotal moment occurred in 1948 with the launch of book clubs, allowing students to order books directly.

By 1957, Scholastic expanded to Canada, initiating its first book fair in 1981. The event transformed school spaces like libraries and gyms into vibrant marketplaces. Just two years later, it was introduced to Canadian schools, quickly becoming a mainstay in the educational landscape.

Impact on Literacy and Education

Scholastic operates in an impressive 88% of Canada’s more than 10,000 publicly funded elementary schools. The company ships an average of three million books across the country each year, highlighting its vast influence on young readers.

• Approximately 9,000 book fairs are held annually in Canadian schools.
• Last year, schools earned $20 million through these fairs, with 90% reinvested into classrooms and libraries.

According to educator Joseph Jeffery, these book fairs provide essential funding for under-resourced schools, offering teachers a percentage of the sales for further purchases. This financial support helps bridge the funding gap as education budgets struggle to keep pace with rising costs.

Redefining Book Fairs

Despite their popularity, Scholastic book fairs face criticism regarding their focus on merchandise. Danika Ellis, an editor at Book Riot, describes them as “conspicuous consumption,” questioning if profit-driven events genuinely promote a love for reading. Critics suggest alternatives, like book swaps, which would eliminate financial disparities among students.

The Role of Merchandise

Mark Leslie Lefebvre, a former president of the Canadian Booksellers Association, acknowledges that while there are concerns about the focus on trinkets, the merchandise can also spark curiosity about reading. Unique items related to popular book series can introduce children to new stories.

The Scholastic Experience

Roberta MacDonald, a retired elementary school teacher, emphasizes the wide selection of books available through Scholastic, which ranged from classic stories to diverse cultural titles. She used Scholastic rewards to ensure all her students had access to books, fostering a lifelong love of reading.

Lefebvre highlights the importance of ownership in reading, stating that books provide children the autonomy to revisit their favorites repeatedly. This ability enriches their educational experience and enhances their connection to literature.

As the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books, Scholastic continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing a culture of reading among Canadian children. Through its innovative approaches and commitment to accessibility, Scholastic shapes cultural milestones and fosters a love for literature that lasts a lifetime.