South Whittier School District celebrated Read Across America on Thursday, March 2, by having special guests read to elementary students throughout the district.
Read Across America, which is held on Dr. Suess’ birthday, is an annual celebration highlighting the importance of reading. Elementary schools throughout the district invite community members and professionals from a variety of backgrounds to come and read to students and share the joy that reading brings.
This year students got to hear from South Whittier Board members, administration, parents, and community members. Some of the readers included SWSD superintendent, Dr. Gonzales, who read to the Lake Marie Pre-K class, board clerk, Jan Baird, who read to McKibben’s fourth grade students, and Sheriff, Susan Jimenez, who read to the Lake Marie kindergarten class.
Many readers read books that inspired them as young children or books that shared about their profession. After reading their chosen story, they spoke with students about the importance of reading, their profession, and what education and training was required to get them where they are today. They also allowed students to ask questions.
After Sheriff Jimenez read to Lake Marie students, she opened up her patrol car for all Lake Marie students to see. She gave them a tour of her car and shared how Sheriff Officers protect and serve the community.
Thank you to all community members who participated in South Whittier’s Read Across America event!