The city of Clarkson is celebrating “Read Across America Week” and encouraging parents, guardians and teachers “to teach children the foundations of reading and assist them in mastering basic reading skills.”
This Sunday through Saturday marks the 23rd annual “Read Across America Week” sponsored by the National Education Association (NEA).
Across the U.S., thousands of schools, libraries, community centers, civic groups, and numerous other organizations will participate by promoting the power of reading, with a focus on motivating children to read and master basic reading skills.
NEA’s “Read Across America” works to unite children and books as well as demonstrate the many benefits of reading. In addition, this year’s celebration also marks the 121st birthday of author Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, on March 2.
In commemoration of the event, Clarkson Mayor Bonnie Henderson and the Clarkson City Commission signed a proclamation declaring the week of Sunday, March 2 through Saturday, March 8, as “Read Across America Week” in the city of Clarkson.
“The commission urges all parents, teachers, and other adults within our community to set aside time on those dates to read to your child and allow them to read aloud to you,” the city of Clarkson said in a press release. “The Clarkson City Commission challenges the teachers of Clarkson Elementary, and of all schools in Grayson County, to teach children the foundations of reading and assist them in mastering basic reading skills. All adults are encouraged to provide a safe reading environment for the children within their care and explain that reading is an essential building block to a proper education.
“Reading is the first step in creating a bright and successful future for the children of our community and nation. It is the key that will open many doors throughout a child’s academic career.”
The city of Clarkson encourages parents and guardians to read to your children while demonstrating to them that reading leads to knowledge and understanding.
“And above all, remember that children learn best by example. Teach them the true value of reading by checking out a book at the local library and setting down beside your child and reading together,” the city of Clarkson said. “And remember that proper reading skills can be taught all throughout the year, and not just on March 2-8.”
For more information, visit http://www.nea.org/grants/886.htm
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
