Changemakers • Dream Jobs, Real Skills
Free February Community Read-Alouds & Activities
Rally to Read’s February theme is Changemakers, celebrating the passion, purpose, and persistence it takes to turn what you love into meaningful work. This month’s stories shine a light on real-life role models, dream careers, and the skills that help people make a difference. This month includes two free author read-aloud videos for elementary classrooms and for families to use at home, plus a printable activity packet with book lists, career exploration activities, and discussion guides for Pre-K through 5th grade. All free from Reading Is Fundamental. All free from Reading Is Fundamental. To preview all monthly themes and read-alouds, download our free calendar.
February Read-Alouds: Coming February 1
This month’s two author read-alouds are coming soon.
You Belong in the Wild
Written by Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, Illustrated by Sawyer Cloud
Grades: PK – 3rd
This inspiring story encourages children to embrace their connection to nature while discovering the unique strengths they bring to the world. Centered on the theme of changemakers, the book empowers young readers to care for the environment, take meaningful action, and recognize that every small step can help create a brighter future.
Swing
Written and illustrated by James Yang
Grades: PK – 3rd
Enjoy an imaginative story that celebrates creativity, perseverance, and the courage to see possibilities where others see obstacles. Inspired by the theme of changemakers, the book encourages young readers to think differently, embrace innovation, and discover how their unique ideas can make a positive impact on the world.
Free Printable Classroom Resources: Coming February 1
February Activity Packet: Celebration
Dream Jobs, Real Skills. This month’s activity packet includes a recommended book list, career exploration classroom and at-home activities, discussion guides on purpose and skills, puzzles and games, and featured book activity guides. Free to download and print for classroom and home use.
How to Use These Resources in Your Classroom
These free changemakers read-aloud activities are a strong fit for career exploration units, Black History Month lessons on real-world leaders, and social-emotional learning discussions on purpose, strengths, and goals. Use the videos to open a conversation about what students are passionate about and how those interests can become skills. Then extend with the printable activities for reflection exercises, career research, or group discussion.
Free Reading Resources for Every Grade
Looking for more ways to support reading engagement? Our free Resources page has everything you need, printable bookmarks, a classroom poster, a reading log, reading certificates, and book review activities. Spanish-language versions are available for select resources. Educator and family webinars are also available to help you get the most out of Rally to Read all season long. All resources are designed for Pre-K, kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade, with activities that work across multiple reading levels.