Teachers, students and distinguished leaders recently came together to celebrate the nation's largest reading celebration–National Read Across America Week. From March 3-7, schools across Douglas County welcomed special guests who inspired young minds, sharing their love for literacy.
Chapel Hill Elementary fully embraced this year’s theme, “Readers are Leaders,” throughout the
week, creating an exciting atmosphere of literacy and learning. Media specialist Cameron Sheldon brought the theme alive, orchestrating engaging activities designed to encourage students to develop a love for reading. The excitement continued as celebrity readers joined in, reading alongside teachers who took on the role of “Mystery Readers.” Adding to the fun, the school hosted a Beanstack Challenge, culminating in a tricycle race featuring the administration team.
Chapel Hill was honored to welcome an impressive group of guest readers, including former NBA player Mario West, WSBTV Meteorologist Eboni Deon and Former Chapel Hill Teacher of the Year Olivia Theodore.
With community engagement at the heart of the celebration, 51 local leaders visited classrooms to share their favorite stories. Among them, Mayor Rochelle Robinson, Superintendent Trent North, DCSS Board of Education Members Dr. Tameka Scott and Michelle Simmons delighted second and third graders with memorable readings.
“It was amazing to witness so many community members and celebrities share their time and talents with our young readers and embody that readers are truly leaders among our students!” expressed Sheldon. “They made sure that any spare time available was dedicated to reading. This excitement and dedication were reflected in the impressive number of reading minutes logged by all classes.”
Student-athletes from Chapel Hill High School continued the reading wave at Factory Shoals 
Middle School, which created a unique opportunity for the middle school students to interact with older scholars, who share their passion for sports and education.
FSMS media specialist Katrina Barnett expressed her gratitude for the visit, calling it “a memorable and impactful experience for both the students and athletes.”
“The athletes served as inspiring role models, motivating the middle school students to develop a love for reading, prioritizing education and embracing important values like teamwork and sportsmanship,” she said. “This event exemplifies the power of community involvement and the positive influence that older students can have on their younger peers.”
For the second year, the Alexander High School football team brought their energy and enthusiasm to students at Bright Star, Mason Creek and Bill Arp Elementary. The young men bonded with students, sparked excitement and shared their own favorite childhood books.
“Our student athletes have a lot of fun when they are able to visit the elementary schools and read to the younger kids,” said Head Football Coach Cody Neal. “To be honest, our high school kids enjoy the experience just as much as the elementary school kids!”
Players even introduced a friendly book competition, selecting stories they recalled reading in
elementary school. Adding to the excitement, two players read their favorite books in the same classroom with students voting on which story was more entertaining.
“It was a lot of fun to see the kids interacting and having fun,” said Neal. “It was a great experience for everyone involved, and we look forward to continuing this tradition at Bright Star and the other schools we visited. I was so proud of our players for buying in and being great role models for the younger kids.”
Bright Star Elementary students and staff expressed a heartfelt thank you to the Alexander football team, girls’ basketball team, the softball team and members of the CTAE early education class for pouring into their young scholars.
Mason Creek Elementary had an incredible week making literacy a daily highlight. Parents, high school athletes, students and central office staff joined forces to spread the joy of reading.
Mason Creek added to the festivities by participating in Robes Read Across Georgia, a statewide initiative that places judges in front of classrooms to promote civics education. Douglas County Chief Superior Court Judge Cynthia Adams proudly spearheaded this initiative.
Meanwhile, Eastside Elementary hosted their 8th annual Ladies Love Literacy event designed 
to unite students with inspiring women from across the community. Students were captivated by the diverse stories while gaining new insight about the power of books.
“This cherished event brought together women who share a love of reading,” said Principal Timothy Jenkins. “It enriched our students' educational experiences in a truly meaningful way.”
|
|
|---|
