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Surf Bagel expands student reading program

Sara Uzer October 3, 2026Beach Life, Business & Economy, Education & Family, Headlines

Surf Bagel program rewards students for reaching reading goals

Surf Bagel’s “Books to Bagels” reading program has grown from 75 classrooms in the spring to more than 1,000 classrooms for the 2026-27 school year. (Photo courtesy of Surf Bagel.)

Surf Bagel’s “Books to Bagels” reading program has grown from 75 classrooms in the spring to more than 1,000 classrooms for the 2026-27 school year. (Photo courtesy of Surf Bagel.)

Surf Bagel is expanding a reading incentive program that rewards local students with a free bagel and cream cheese for meeting reading goals set by their teachers.

The “Books to Bagels” program launched as a pilot in April with 75 classrooms and has since grown to include more than 1,000 classrooms for the 2026-27 school year.

Through the program, participating teachers set reading goals for their students. Students who meet those goals receive a certificate that can be redeemed at Surf Bagel for a free bagel and cream cheese.

RELATED STORY: Music School of Delaware to launch children’s chorus in Milford this fall

More than 250 certificates have been redeemed since the program began in the spring, according to Surf Bagel.

The program is offered at no cost to schools or teachers, with Surf Bagel providing participating schools with the certificates used as student rewards.

The company said the initiative is intended to support teachers in encouraging students to meet reading goals while building an interest in reading.

Teachers and school administrators can request to participate in the program by submitting an interest form through Surf Bagel’s website. Participation is subject to availability.

Surf Bagel has locations in Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Milford and Millsboro.

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Sara Uzer is a journalist from Sussex County with more than 15 years of experience as a writer, editor, and community advocate. She started her career in Washington, DC and has lived in Sussex County for the past five years.

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