Miss Rolling Plains is advocating for children's literacy one book at a time. Tessa Elizabeth Dee launched Project Bookworm as an online resource for parents of children struggling with literacy. Now, the University of South Dakota junior has taken her organization to the next level.

Project Bookworm is a hands-on reading experience for children. Tessa organizes reading and writing events for children, and she works directly with first grade students to improve reading and comprehension. Increasing literacy will put students on the path to success, and Tessa says she has experienced the benefits for herself.

"Being a good reader has given me the chance to become a better writer, communicator, and analytical thinker," she says. "I truly believe that nothing is more important than a child being able to read."

Tessa entered her first local pageant on a whim, she says, and won the title, much to her surprise. The Miss America Organization has given her a louder voice for children's literacy, and she is incorporating her organization with the MAO platform–Children's Miracle Network.

"I am actually going to our local Children's Miracle Network hospital to host an event and meet the children. I am more than excited because from everything I have done this year as Miss Rolling Plains, nothing has been as rewarding as the time I've spent with CMN. To bring together two things that I care so much about is more than I could ask for," she says.

Tessa works with local libraries to put on events that help children write their own books. She encourages the kids to read their book to their families. Tessa says her goal is to turn Project Bookworm into a "full-fledged non-profit organization," and she hopes to develop the organization throughout her state and the rest of the country.

Tessa will compete for the state title this June.