Kicking off their exciting 2018-19 literacy initiative titled “Get Lost in a Book,” Lynbrook South Middle School held spirited grade level pep rallies on Nov. 7.

Coordinated by Lynbrook English Department Chairperson Roxanne Migliacci and South staff members, each grade level gathered to hear about the initiative and the school’s book challenge which will take place during the course of the year. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Melissa Burak was also present for the celebration.

During the pep rallies, teachers and student speakers challenged the school community to read 2,500 books by memorial day weekend. They also discussed ways in which every student could get involved to help the school reach its goal while showcasing various book trailers as book suggestions. A book festival will be held at the end of the school year if the school community reaches its goal. 

Teachers were also encouraged to get involved. Social studies teacher Al Marrazzo presented Flipgrid, a video discussion platform that allows both students and teachers to record short videos, share, leave responses and recommend books to others. Students watched Flipgrid entries from the South Middle School staff including Principal Joseph Wiener, who recommended a book for students to read. Students also learned about book series options that might interest them. 

Keeping with the spirit of the event, the Lynbrook owl Darius was introduced. Students looked under their seats for a golden owl and lucky winners received a free book of their choice from Darius at the conclusion of the pep rally. With the guidance of chorus teacher Annie Pasqua, the school’s select chorus entertained the crowd with their performance of “Just Read It,” fit to the tune of Michael Jackson’s hit, “Beat It.” 

Dressed in custom green T-shirts inscribed with the words “Just Read It” and “#GiveAHootForReading” in gold lettering, the select chorus continued to help during the pep rally as they passed out goodie bags to each student which included a paper owl. Paper owls will be filled out each time a teacher or student reads a book. Photos of the students reading and getting involved in the challenge will be posted throughout the year on South Middle School’s Twitter, @LynbrookSouthMS.