Area third graders are a little better prepared for the rest of their school careers thanks to local Ruritan clubs.

These Ruritan clubs are in the process of purchasing student dictionaries to distribute to third graders. Several Ruritan clubs across the state are taking up the call, focusing on elementary schools in their own communities. Students at Westfield Elementary School received their dictionaries last week, while Flat Rock Elementary School third graders were given their dictionaries on Thursday.

“We were given the opportunity to purchase the books and I think it’s a great thing,” said Mark King, president of the Flat Rock Ruritans.

The group started gearing up for the initiative last year under the leadership of Gilbert Johnson, who is this year’s vice president and who served as president for a short time last year.

“Third graders are in such a transition stage. So much is required of them. They’re starting a lot of your maths and stuff and actually going into the learning process,” said Johnson. “We felt it was the best place to start.”

The Ruritans hope the teachers will take the opportunity to teach students how to properly use a dictionary and how to use the words properly in a sentence once they learn the definition.

This initiative is just the latest project Ruritans are undertaking in partnership with schools. The Flat Rock Ruritan Club also helps Flat Rock Elementary with its D.A.R.E. program by providing T-shirts for students as well as by donating backpacks filled with school supplies at the beginning of the year.

“The faculty are fantastic people to work with,” said Johnson. “We work real good with the school here.”

The Flat Rock Ruritans are looking for new members from the community as well. They meet the third Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at 1070 Linville Road.

Contact Morgan Wall at mwall@mtairynews.com or 719-1929.