Published on March 11, 2021
Last week Warwick elementary schools participated in the “Read Across America” initiative.
Different activities took place in each of the schools, like character dress up days, read aloud's, community service projects and more. “Various activities help students to think of reading in a different way and enjoy books they may not otherwise read,” stated Mrs. Liana McFadden, reading specialist at Bonfield Elementary.
At the beginning of the week a video was shared with all grades at Bonfield Elementary school of sixth-graders reading aloud the book, “Tiara’s Hat Parade.” Having read this book before, sixth-grader Payton Zimmerman was so moved by it and inspired by the topic that she created her own introductory slideshow before the read aloud to share with the school. Part of the school-wide activity also included a service project where students collected and donated socks for the Warwick community clothing drive. Socks were displayed on a clothing line in the lobby over 450 pairs of socks were collected.
Students at Bonfield were eager to give back and know that their donation efforts would benefit the Warwick community. “School-wide service projects instill in our students the value of serving and helping others. Mrs. Balsbaugh's idea of displaying our collections on a clothesline allowed students to see the impact we can make if everyone pitches in,” said McFadden.
One of the final activities students participated in was “DEAR” time. On Friday, the entire school stopped what they were doing to read. Students were able to read for pleasure, rather than reading assigned text, and they watched their teachers read as well. Younger students were able to listen to books through the EPIC app. Any exposure to text, whether reading or listening, helps students to build vocabulary and grow as readers.