Jean Rounds
SD's First Lady's Special Programs
Since becoming South Dakota’s First Lady in January, 2003, Jean has been active in promoting programs she believes to be important to South Dakota families - early literacy, drug & alcohol awareness for children, and women’s heart health. The following is a brief summary of the programs in which Jean has been involved. Reach Out and Read
Reach Out and Read is an early age literacy development program which utilizes health care providers to distribute books and encourage children aged six months to 5 years to read. Through this program, over 33,000 books have been distributed to children in South Dakota.
Visit the Reachout and Read web site.
Scholastic 2004
Through Scholastic 2004, Jean, in conjunction with other first spouses across the country, has helped to distribute scholastic books to South Dakota school libraries for grades kindergarten through 12. In addition, she promotes this program by visiting elementary schools and reading to the students.
Read Across America
Jean also supports the National Education Association’s Read Across America program which encourages reading and literacy awareness. Jean takes part in an annual event held around Dr. Suess’s birthday that has become nation’s largest reading event. The program also provides resources to encourage and support reading all year long.
Visit the National Education Association web site.
Leadership to Keep Children Alcohol Free
Jean is actively involved in Leadership to Keep Children Alcohol Free, which seeks to educate nine to fifteen year olds about the dangers and health risks of underage drinking.
Visit the Keep Children Alcohol Free web site.
Reach Out Now “Teach In”
South Dakota’s First Lady also supports the Reach Out Now “Teach In” program which provides school-based materials to aid in teaching fifth and sixth graders, parents, teachers, and the community about the dangers of underage alcohol use and to encourage young people to make healthy decisions.
Visit the Reach Out Now "Teach In" web site.
Heart Healthy Women
Encouraging women to stay healthy through the Heart Healthy Women program is another area in which the First Lady is active. Heart Healthy Women emphasizes the importance of exercise, eating healthy, regular doctor appointments, and not smoking. Additionally Jean is involved in several events which highlight the importance of Women’s Heart Health issues, including Go Red for Women and Wear Red Day for Women.
Visit the American Heart Association web site.
More Background and Family
Governor Rounds Awards & Recognition
Political Background
Professional/Civic/Family Background
|
