Candidate for state schools superintendent bringing bookmobile to Modesto
State Superintendent of Public Instruction candidate Josh Newman is bringing his bookmobile to Modesto on April 18 from 10 a.m. to noon at 4842 Nutcracker Lane. The event is a part of the “Let’s Lift Up Learning” statewide literacy initiative.
The former California state senator is partnering with UA Local 442 Plumbers & Pipe Fitters for the event, “underscoring Newman’s belief that strong public education and a strong workforce go hand in hand,” a press release stated.
“If we want stronger schools across the Valley and across the state, we need to get back to basics, and nothing is more basic, or more transformative, than helping kids discover a love of reading early,” Newman said in a statement to The Modesto Bee. “When children grow up surrounded by books, they build the skills and confidence to thrive in every grade. That’s why community book swaps like this matter so much.”
The event will include a book swap, for which families are welcome to bring books to exchange, and all children in attendance will receive a free book, available in English and Spanish, followed by a speech from Newman.
Modesto is the third stop on the bookmobile tour, which previously visited Orange County and San Diego.
This story was originally published April 14, 2026 at 4:47 PM.
