Usha Vance launches 2026 Summer Reading Challenge website

Second lady Usha Vance on Wednesday launched the website of her 2026 childhood literacy "Summer Reading" program, which allows students who complete the program to choose a prize. 

The initiative is open to any student between kindergarten and eighth grade and students will be required to read any 12 books of their choosing, log their progress and write reflections. Submissions are due September 4. 

Students who complete the challenge will automatically be given a digital certificate, a personalized letter, and an America-250th themed bookmark, plus a chance to win a trip to the Nation’s Capital and the White House on Sept. 25.

“Reading is its own reward, but I’m excited to announce that kids who participate in my Summer Reading Challenge will also receive fun prizes this summer," Vance said in a statement released by the White House. "Congratulations to everyone who has already completed the Challenge -- enjoy picking out something special on the new prize website! And if you haven't started, there’s still plenty of time to make this the best summer of reading yet."

Prizes include a ticket to the Crayola Experience in Florida or Pennsylvania, Walmart and Dairy Queen gift cards, NASA patches and stickers, a ticket to the National Children's Museum in Washington, D.C., and a book selection from 24 Scholastic books.   

"Every book you open is an adventure – whether you are exploring new places, meeting new characters, or learning something new," Vance said in a statement on the website. "A whole summer of reading fun is waiting just for you!"

The second lady noted that more than 20,000 students enrolled in the program last year and enrollment has already tripled in 2026.

The new program comes after Vance launched her “Storytime with the Second Lady" podcast in March, which is aimed at boosting childhood literacy rates nationwide. 

The podcast includes readings from celebrities, children’s authors, athletes, veterans and musicians, among others. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.