School Challenge Benefits Eagles, Literacy

The American Eagle & Literacy Challenge was originated by Timberlin Creek Elementary School students in St. Augustine, Florida who want to support and raise awareness of the American Bald Eagle and literacy.

One of the program's major goals is to assist the non-profit American Eagle Foundation (AEF) in its quest to have governors in all 50 states proclaim June 20th as American Eagle Day. Students also hope to encourage support of the "American Eagle Fund" endowment for bald eagle recovery and protection.

F.O.E. joined the effort in 2005, with aeries and auxiliaries through the country becoming involved. During Winter Conference in Orlando, Timberlin Creek students explained that once all 50 proclamations are gathered, President Bush will be asked to declare June 20 "American Eagle Day."

Students are also challenging fellow eagle mascot schools in Florida to raise $1,000 each, with 50 percent of the money benefiting bald eagle care and recovery through the AEF, and the other half promoting literacy. If every school meets this goal, Florida will raise $150,000 to support these efforts.

In April, State Aerie President Ernie Repp joined Florida students to challenge schools in the other 49 states to raise $1,000 each, which has the potential to raise $7.5 million.