Last week, Alex wrote about the winners of the 2012 Scholastic All-Stars. These 12 students overcame obstacles and improved their reading skills.

On Friday, I had the chance to visit System 44 All-Star winner Jose Negron, a seventh grader at Equality Charter School in the Bronx. Born with a hearing-impairment, Jose had difficulty reading, and began sixth grade at a first grade reading level. One year later, his reading has improved immensely thanks to his determination and hard work.

Jose, who wants to be an actor, was extremely excited for his interview with the New York Daily News and smiled for the camera. It was great to see Jose in action – animated and confident. I chatted with his teachers (his READ 180 teacher, his math teacher, and the school principal all showed up to support him!) while he had his big interview, and it was wonderful to hear how proud they are of him. They told me how much he had changed as a result of his improved reading skills. He is now more confident, social, and independent. The support didn’t stop with the staff – his class made signs for him congratulating him on his amazing accomplishment.

Read Jose’s  story in The New York Daily News here. And, check out the video from KCAL in Los Angeles here.

For more information on the 2012 winners please visit our media room for the full press release.