Communities In Schools of Hart County

Inspired by the success of the Dollywood Foundation program, and in support
of this proactive approach to help children achieve success in education and in life, Robin Ferst formed the Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy in 1999.  Originating in Morgan County,  Georgia the goal was established to send the books from Dolly’s Imagination Library to every child in Georgia by 2010.

The Foundation strives to improve early childhood learning for every child regardless of income, race, religion, or gender as any child who cannot read is at-risk.

Children registered for the Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy program receive a book at his/her home every month via U.S. mail until their fifth birthday.  If they are registered as soon as they are born, each child will receive up to 60 free books for his/her own personal library!

An expert committee composed of individuals from education, child development, academia and early childhood literacy has carefully selected the books chosen for this home library. 

The children’s classic, The Little Engine That Could, is the first book of each child receives and Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready For Kindergarten is the final “graduation” book that is received when the child turns 5.

As the program focus grew to include parent assistance and additional literacy support items, the Foundation grew into its new name:  Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy.  We continue to send the books from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in conjunction with enhancements from our second literacy support initiative, Leap Into Books.

Now, in addition to the personal library, each child enrolled in the Ferst Foundation program also receives a “Ferst” library card, a Parent’s Guide with tips for the parents on how to read aloud with their child and a coupon for a distinctive, adjustable bookcase (with locomotive and caboose bookends) which is specially designed to become a family heirloom.  The newest addition
to the Program will include a monthly communication piece, which will provide a book guide, child activity page, and opportunities for local community literacy announcements and sponsor acknowledgement.

You can register a child on line! Register Here

Reading Is Fundamental, Inc. prepares and motivates children to read by delivering free books and literacy resources to those children and families who need them most.

Founded in 1966, RIF is the oldest and largest children's and family nonprofit literacy organization in the United States. 

All RIF programs combine three essential elements to foster children's literacy: reading motivation, family and community involvement, and the excitement of choosing free books to keep.

RIF's accomplishments are due in part to the generous support of the U.S. Department of Education, corporations, foundations, community organizations, and thousands of individuals.

CIS, in conjunction with Hart Partners and the Nancy Hart Adult Learning Center, offers a variety of computer classes for adults in Hart County.  The classes typically run once a week for four consecutive weeks.  The cost of the class is $25.  Interested students may call 706-376-3000 to sign up.  Please check our calendar or call for our class schedule.

Classes offered include:

Beginning Computer- This is a true beginner level course for adults who want to learn to use a computer.  The class introduces Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word basics, and an introduction to the Internet.

Intermediate Word- This class reviews Microsoft Word basics and introduces more advanced Word skills.  Basic knowledge of Word or the Beginning Computer class is a prerequisite for taking this course.

Beginning Excel- This class teaches the basics of the spreadsheet program Microsoft Excel.  Computer experience is helpful before taking this class. 

Beginning PowerPoint- This class introduces the Microsoft PowerPoint presentation program.