The School District of Manatee County will screen the 1993 film "Rudy" free at the Lakewood Ranch Branch Library on Sept. 22.
Free screening pairs movie night with literacy push
The screening is part of the district's Family Literacy Movie Night series, held in partnership with Manatee County Government at county library locations during September. The event runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the library, 16410 Rangeland Parkway. Registration is required in advance through a QR code on the district's promotional flyer, according to Pulse of Manatee.
Free snacks will be provided.
September is National Literacy Month, and each film in the series centers on themes of perseverance and determination. "Rudy" tells the story of a young man who overcomes obstacles to play football at Notre Dame.
Second screening set for Holmes Beach library
A second screening, featuring Disney's 2007 animated film "Meet the Robinsons," is scheduled for Sept. 24, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach. That event also requires advance registration.
District cites recent gains in reading scores
The movie nights come as the district reports gains in reading proficiency. Fifty-six percent of Manatee County third-graders met reading expectations in the 2025-26 school year, the highest level in district history, according to SRQ Magazine.
Third-grade reading proficiency rose 4 percentage points districtwide, according to state grades released in July.
New strategic plan targets top-five ranking
The screenings also align with the district's new three-year strategic plan, Manatee Momentum, which the school board approved in early September, according to Your Observer. The plan lists community and family engagement as one of four priority areas.
"If we can increase growth in our graduation rate, literacy proficiencies and student outcomes, we'll be a top five district in the state," school board member Charlie Kennedy said on Sept. 1, when the board approved the plan.
How to register for the free events
No web registration link has been published for either event. Families should look for the QR code on district flyers at local schools.
