Peoples Bank & Trust has made a $35,000 donation to the Pana Community Unit School District to support a new K-through-12 literacy initiative.

School officials say the funding will go toward a reading comprehension program designed to help teachers strengthen literacy skills across all grade levels.

Superintendent Jessica Miller says the district plans to use the money to train teachers in proven strategies aimed at improving student reading and comprehension. She says strong literacy skills are key to long-term academic success and this investment will help build a stronger foundation for students.

Bank President and CEO John Gardner says the donation reflects the bank’s commitment to supporting education and the community. He adds the goal is to help give both students and teachers the tools they need to succeed.

District leaders say the initiative will focus on improving instruction, analyzing student progress, and helping students stay engaged in their learning.

The Pana School District serves about 1,150 students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade across parts of Christian, Shelby, and Montgomery counties.