Cockrell Hill Elementary School Strengthens Student Literacy Through Ongoing Reading Buddies Partnership with Costco
Cockrell Hill Elementary School is celebrating the continued success of its Reading Buddies partnership with Costco. For the second time this school year, Costco has partnered with the campus to support student literacy growth and build reading confidence through weekly volunteer engagement.
Through the Reading Buddies program, Costco volunteers visit the campus each week to read one-on-one with students. In addition to shared reading time, volunteers assist with spelling practice, sentence-building exercises, and foundational language skills that reinforce daily classroom instruction.
Principal Sissy Lowe expressed appreciation for the meaningful impact of the partnership.
“We are incredibly grateful for Costco’s continued commitment to our scholars,” said Lowe. “When community partners invest their time and resources into our students, it makes a lasting difference. The Reading Buddies program not only strengthens literacy skills, but it also builds confidence and helps foster a genuine love of reading.”
To further enhance the experience, Costco generously purchased workbooks for participating students. These structured resources provide additional guided practice and meaningful activities, allowing students to continue developing their reading and writing skills beyond volunteer sessions.
Family and Community Engagement Specialist Kendal Harden highlighted the broader significance of the collaboration.
“Partnerships like this demonstrate the power of community in supporting student success,” said Harden. “Costco’s volunteers are showing our students that reading matters and that our community believes in their potential. Their consistency and dedication are helping our students grow academically while feeling encouraged and supported.”
The ongoing partnership reflects Cockrell Hill Elementary’s commitment to strengthening literacy through community engagement and collaborative support. By connecting students with caring adult mentors, the campus continues to promote academic growth while cultivating enthusiasm for reading.
For more information about partnership opportunities within DeSoto ISD, please contact the district’s Family and Community Engagement Department at 972.223.6666 or visit DeSotoiSD.org.
For stories regarding the latest news, events and happenings across the district, visit DeSotoISD.org/Newsroom.