Led by library media specialist Meghan Ceglie, first and second graders from Waverly Park Elementary School celebrated Read Across America during the week of March 1 with many diverse stories and activities. Read Across America is observed each year by the National Education Association and encourages children to read more books and get excited about reading.

Each day after reading a book, Waverly Park students colored in a state that the author was from on a map and practiced story elements and social-emotional learning based on the book they read. The students also had the opportunity to dress up each day during the week. From dressing as a famous American, to wearing something that represented their family’s heritage, the students learned so much about each other. At home, the students decorated cars which included pictures of their family and the title of their favorite books.

During the week, one of the first grade classes had a visit from a special guest reader, Dr. Gerard Beleckas, assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and assessment. The culminating activity for all first and second grade classes was decorating a “souvenir” T-shirt, which showcased their favorite book from the week and each student earned their own driver’s license to read.