SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – There was a sense of excitement in the air as Adlai Stevenson Elementary School students passed the halls and settled into classrooms on Friday.
Many students dressed up as characters from Dr. Seuss’s books. The Cat in the Hat was a popular costume across classrooms.
March is National Reading Month. Schools across Metro Detroit spent Friday (March 1) kicking off the month with special events, reading challenges, and programs promoting literacy.
“Literacy is important,” said Principal Tonya Hickman. “So, with literacy being important, this is like our one month. This is like a holiday month because we go all out when it comes to reading.”
Staff members at Stevenson Elementary said they are in the habit of making readers the next leaders. While literacy and reading comprehension are essential every day, they said National Reading Month promotes additional awareness.
Students said books allow young readers to use their imaginations. Sometimes, it allows them the courage to create stories of their own.
Literacy Coach Carlis Gaddis said, “Reading is so very important.”
It takes you to other places. When you’re bored, you pick up a good book and read to pass the time. It also elevates your fluency, ensuring your comprehension is on point.”
The staff at the elementary school is planning a month-long calendar of programs. Some of the events include guest readers from a variety of backgrounds.
Local 4 is also partnering with schools this National Reading Month in collaboration with our Go 4 It community campaign.
Teachers, parents, and students around Metro Detroit are encouraged to submit a video telling us why one of the Local 4 anchors or reporters should come to your class to read.