It’s Read Across America Week

By Loretta Cozart

It is Read Across America Week (RAA) nationwide, and in Kings Mountain all elementary schools are participating with guest readers. Read Across America Week is celebrated from March 2 to 6, but Kings Mountain is celebrating this week from February 27 – March 3. The event is used to promote reading and begins on the birthday of the beloved author, Dr. Seuss. The entire month of March, in fact, is dedicated to reading.

At North Elementary School Monday, guest readers read books to the students. The first guest readers of the day were from Gardner-Webb University. Later, readers from Kings Mountain High School Football team read with the children. After reading with the students, the athletes signed autographs.

West Elementary School added activities for each day of RAA at their school..

On Monday, students wore crazy sox; Tuesday they wore green; Wednesday is pajama day; Thursday is hat day; and Friday is college shirt day. East Elementary School began RAA by casting off in search of Book Blast treasure. Students received a map and began the treasure hunt. Students who complete the task get a chance to win one of four Treasure Chests stuffed with cash and even an Apple iPad. Even better, students will be starting their journey to earning all 10 books on the Treasure Map book list.

Bethware Elementary School began their RAA week by bringing a stuffed animal to school. Each grade level was assigned a day for Breakfast for Book. Parents can come with their child on their assigned day and read from 7:45-8:30 in the media center. Tuesday students brought a beach towel to use while reading; Wednesday, bring a flashlight; Thursday, wear silly socks and show them off; and Friday, wear a hat while reading in the classroom.

The National Education Association (N.E.A.) aims to encourage reading and educate people about its benefits, especially among children and young adults. Events are organized across the nation by schools and organizations to promote the same.