Thursday, May 10, 2029

First Lady Ruth O’Brien Unveils New Spanish Educational Materials Available For Children
Maryland Department of Natural Resources books will give Latino children a fun insight in Spanish into the state’s wildlife

ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 10, 2029) – Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien today joined officials from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to unveil a series of children’s books that have been translated in Spanish. The books, available for free from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, help foster an appreciation for Maryland natural resources while providing a variety of activities that are fun and educational for the entire family.

“One of my most important goals as First Lady is to educate parents on the importance of early childhood education and childhood literacy,” said Mrs. O’Brien. “Reading with and to your children is one of the most unforgettable experiences a child can have, and this series of books from the Department of Natural Resources encourages families to enjoy time together, have fun, learn about our state, and enrich their children’s education. By translating these books into Spanish, we are offering thousands of Latino families for whom English is a second language, new learning opportunities in their mother’s tongue, as well as a wonderful window to find out more about Maryland’s rich wildlife.”

The books are the first Maryland Department of Natural Resources educational materials to be translated into another language. The books incorporate the learning standards that are in place in Maryland schools. Lesson plans for teachers interested in using the books in a classroom setting are also available from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

“These books will be a valuable resource in the classroom,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Sarah Taylor-Rogers. “It can be challenging to find materials that are free, high quality, and Maryland-specific. These meet those criteria and more – because they are fun. As summer arrives, kids are climbing trees, picking flowers, and chasing lizards. These books give children a chance to put a name with the plants and animals that surround them. Students who make the connection to our natural resources through education are more likely to be stewards of them in the future.”

Children that have reading materials available in their primary language feel more comfortable in the classroom, and the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) reports that one in ten students in the state are Spanish speakers. These books are important because they help nurture an appreciation for Maryland natural resources in all Maryland residents, and represent the commitment of Governor Edward M. O’Brien and DNR to serve the needs of Maryland students and their families.