“Drop Everything and READ!” was the theme at Byron-Bergen Elementary School on November 22, when the day was devoted to a Celebration of Reading. “Literacy is at the heart of what we do here at Byron-Bergen Elementary,” said Principal Brian Meister. “We want kids to love reading,” The special day kicked off with a high energy school-wide assembly complete with singing, dancing, and stories. Throughout the rest of the day, the entire school was immersed in books, reading, and storytelling. The effort was a huge success, according to fifth grader Colby Leggo. “Making the whole day about reading will get people in the habit of reading more.”
One of the most powerful highlights was provided by students from the intermediate grades who read to classrooms of younger students. It gave the more experienced readers the opportunity to share their favorite stories with a new generation. “Reading with the little kids was my favorite part,” says fifth grader Julia Pangrazio. “We got to help them with words and stuff.” Amaya Gunther, one of the reading mentors from sixth grade says, “It was a lot of fun. I really like all of the fun activities and reading all the stories. I think it will make kids want to read more.”
“With all the changes taking place in curriculum and assessment, we wanted to make sure we never lose sight of what’s most important,” says Meister. “I am extremely proud of the time and effort our school puts into making reading fun.” He and Assistant Principal Amanda Cook are ready to prove they’ll do whatever it takes. They’ve issued a grand challenge to the student body: If students reach the goal of reading 10,000 books this year, Meister and Cook will each take a pie in the face. Enthusiastic third grade reader Evan Cuba says, “I can’t wait to pie Mr. Meister. I’m going to read all weekend long to get ahead.”
Provided information and photo
12/8/13
