Scoop has been talking about the Comics in the Classroom for some time now, and we're happy to report that, thanks to MSDE TV, this concept is getting its spotlight and familiarizing new audiences with this great plan to encourage reading and comprehension growth in public schools.

As part of a joint effort between the Maryland Department of Education, Disney and Diamond Comics Distributors' Steve Geppi, this program brings comic books as supplemental reading material into the public school curriculum. With Phase II of this program ready to roll out in the fall, MSDE TV has created a video which is now posted online at: media.msde.state.md.us/2007/COMICS/1.wmv and media.msde.state.md.us/2007/COMICS/2.mov.

Once a subject of scorn by educators, comic books are now taking their rightful place in encouraging reading with students and readers of all levels. And this video can help everyone see the true benefits that Maryland teachers have already come to understand.

Everyone at Scoop wishes the program a long and fruitful success.