Erik Jones Champions Literacy at Texas School

MANSFIELD, TEX. – Just days before competing in the Würth 400 at Texas Motor Speedway, Erik Jones, driver of the No. 43 AdventHealth x Texas Health Toyota Camry, visited Annette Perry Elementary School in Mansfield.

Jones and the Erik Jones Foundation partnered with Texas Health to speak to first-grade classes about the importance of literacy and read a short story to students. The Erik Jones Foundation donated the book If I Built a Car by Chris Van Dusen to each child in attendance.

“It was really special to partner with Texas Health and spend time reading to a couple first-grade classes,” said Jones. “Promoting literacy is one of the core pillars of the Erik Jones Foundation, so having the chance to share that message with young students means a lot to me. Reading has always been one of my favorite hobbies away from the racetrack, and I hope we can inspire kids to develop that same love for books and learning.”

When Jones established his foundation in 2021, he made igniting a passion for reading part of its mission. Book vending machines have become a signature part of his community efforts after Jones purchased one for his former elementary school. As a result, the school saw a 300 percent increase in the number of kids who chose a book as their reward for being good students.

“At Texas Health Hospital Mansfield, we’re committed to building healthier communities, and we believe early literacy plays a vital role in the well-being of our children,” said Eulanie Lashley, Texas Health Hospital Mansfield president and CEO. “Partnering with Erik Jones and Legacy Motor Club to bring his love of reading to local students is an exciting opportunity to inspire young minds and help spark a lifelong passion for learning.”

“We are thrilled NASCAR driver Erik Jones visited today, not only to encourage our students to explore the world of books by reading to them, but also by donating books that will foster a love of literacy throughout their years at Annette Perry Elementary,” said Keziah Farrar, former Mansfield Independent School District board president. “We appreciate AdventHealth’s continued support and reinforcing the importance of early literacy across MISD.”

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