Each year, National Read Across America Day is observed on March 2, the birthday of children’s book author Ted Geisel, a/k/a Dr. Seuss. In celebration, many schools often dedicate the following week as “Reading Week.” In Carson City, grade-schoolers at several schools celebrated the observance with community partners and local dignitaries, who visited classrooms to inspire young minds and foster a love for reading.
Throughout the week, esteemed guests visited classrooms in Carson City to engage students in the world of literature through the magic of storytelling. The goal of Reading Week was to promote literacy, highlight the importance of reading in academic and personal development and nurture a culture of lifelong learning and literacy.
During their visits, dignitaries not only read from a selection of beloved children's books, but they also interacted with students, answering questions and sharing personal experiences and anecdotes. These crucial interactions also helped inspire students to self-reflect and think about potential career paths as well as develop personal reading habits.
The volunteer reading effort at each school was organized by a committee of teachers who came together to create several fun and engaging events and dress-up days. The effort also served as a reminder of how the collaborative efforts between the community and educational institutions supports student learning and development.
Nationally, an estimated 45 million educators, parents and students across the U.S. will participate in the observed reading week. Since 1997, the National Education Association has called on every community to enjoy the benefits of reading.