Huntsville native recognized for founding nonprofit “A Time 2 Read” and improving literacy in local schools.
Holly McMichael, founder of the nonprofit organization “A Time 2 Read,” was honored with the 2024 Heroes for Children Award, presented by the Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) during its general meeting on September 13, 2024. This award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to Texas public education through volunteerism and community service.
For three decades, the Heroes for Children Award has honored outstanding individuals whose volunteer services have helped shape the futures of public school students in Texas. This inspiring group of Texans have engaged in various acts of service from leading parent-teacher organizations and advocating for educational improvements, to promoting literacy and mentoring students on post-graduation goals.
“As we celebrate 30 years of this distinguished award, we honor the extraordinary service of individuals who have gone above and beyond to support our school systems and uphold our Texas values,” said SBOE Chairman, Aaron Kinsey. “Their efforts remind all of us of the impact that committed individuals can have on the lives of Texas children.”
McMichael, a graduate of Huntsville High School and former elementary school teacher, was nominated by Huntsville High School Principal Paul Trevino for her tireless work in addressing literacy challenges among elementary students in Huntsville ISD. “He actually called me before the school year was out last year to tell me that he wanted to nominate me, but he said he had to have my permission,” McMichael explained. “He told me, ‘I know you don’t do this for any kind of recognition, but I would love to nominate you for this award.'”
Through A Time 2 Read, McMichael has created various programs to improve literacy, including personalized tutoring, book distributions, and a Summer Backpack Drive to prevent learning loss during school breaks. The nonprofit has grown under McMichael’s leadership, with volunteers working with four elementary schools in Huntsville ISD, fostering relationships that go beyond academics.
“The heart of what we do is really the volunteers,” McMichael emphasized. “If we didn’t have them, we wouldn’t have a program. They show up once a week, selflessly giving their time to make a difference in the lives of these kids.”
McMichael’s husband BJ, also a Huntsville High School graduate, shares her dedication to the community. Two of their children have already graduated from the school, with their youngest currently attending as a junior. “We love Huntsville, we love the Hornets, and we are strong supporters of public schools,” McMichael said, highlighting her family’s deep connection to the city.
McMichael also spoke about the challenges Huntsville ISD has faced in the past and how the community has worked to improve the district’s image. “Huntsville had a really bad rap for a while, but we’ve seen such a turnaround in recent years,” she said. “With the bond passing, we now have a beautiful Fine Arts building, new athletic facilities, and so much more.”
Reflecting on the recognition she received, McMichael remained humble. “I still am kind of shocked that I even won,” she admitted. “My name is on the plaque, but it’s the volunteers who are the real heroes for the children. They are the ones putting in the time and building relationships with these kids.”
As part of her efforts to promote literacy, McMichael organizes an annual Storybook 5K Fun Run, an event that brings together the Huntsville community to raise awareness and support for A Time 2 Read’s programs. The event has become a signature fundraiser for the organization, allowing it to continue providing vital services to local students.
“I feel like this award is not just for me,” McMichael said. “It’s for my family, the volunteers, and everyone who has supported A Time 2 Read. It’s a true community effort, and I’m grateful to be a part of it.”
The Heroes for Children Award, now in its 30th year, recognizes exceptional individuals who have gone above and beyond to support public school students in Texas. McMichael’s recognition as the recipient for District 8 highlights her impactful work in shaping the future of education in Huntsville ISD.
About A Time 2 Read
A Time 2 Read, utilizing the Arise2Read program, is a collaboration between evangelical churches, businesses, civic clubs, and local school districts, aimed at strengthening 2nd-grade students to ensure they enter third grade reading at grade level.
This initiative plays an active role in child development within public schools through the efforts of dedicated volunteers focused on literacy. Volunteers commit to serving one hour per week during the school day, working with two 2nd-grade students—spending 30 minutes with each—using a simple sight word approach. In addition, the program provides books to enhance literacy.
The tutoring sessions not only improve reading skills but also make a lasting impact on the students’ lives. The consistency of weekly sessions with the same adult offers encouragement and support, helping children feel valued and empowered. By dedicating just one hour a week, volunteers can make a lifetime of difference in a child’s life.
For more information, visit https://www.atime2read.org/
