Submitted by Kathy Pavoncello
Read Across America Week was recently celebrated at Yorkshire Elementary, coinciding with Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Local authors visited the school and read their books to our students, and each day brought a unique form of celebration. Reading Specialists, Kelly Gulley and Patty Murray, with the help of retired Yorkshire teacher, Karen Moyer (reprising her role of Queen Bee), did a wonderful job of organizing this fun-filled week. Each day began with a poem or song, and a Reader’s Oath, recited by Mrs. Gulley or Mrs. Murray, and repeated by students during morning announcements. In addition, students enjoyed searching the hallways for photos of Yorkshire teachers and staff reading books in odd and comical places.
Monday was “Free To Read Monday.” Students dressed in red, white and/or blue, and were encouraged to read their favorite book throughout the day. Tuesday was “Oh the Places You’ll Go Day.” Yorkshire friends wore an outfit that described a favorite vacation spot, destination college (or city they want to visit), or future occupation. Wednesday was “Wacky Who Wednesday,” with lots of crazy hairstyles and wacky mismatched outfits! Teachers performed a ‘switch-a-roo,’ and partnered up other grade-level classes to read and learn together. Thursday was “Pajama Day,” just in time to welcome our YSHS students as they performed a teaser rendition of their 2017 musical, “The Pajama Game”. The accompanying book for the day was, “I’m Not Going To Get Up Today”. On Friday, students came to school dressed as a favorite book character. They brought their book (with their character) to school, and filled the hallways with color and creativity as they marched in a parade to the gym for an assembly. Yorkshire’s teachers performed a hilarious skit, posing as various Dr. Seuss characters. Prior to returning to their classrooms, students surprised everyone by spontaneously joining together to sing, “Dr. Seuss, We Love You,” a song they learned during the week, written by Carmino Ravosa.
What a great way to round out a week dedicated to the joy of reading, and special tributes to a timeless author and illustrator!