submitted by Kathy Despart, Stephentown Elementary School Parent
Stephentown Elementary students, families and faculty shared a wonderful night of reading and camaraderie together on February 11. The students and their families were invited to share the evening listening to the SES faculty read some of their favorite beloved children’s books. The children came dressed in their favorite pajamas, equipped with their favorite stuffed animals, pillows and blankets. As families snuggled together on gym mats in front of a cozy lamp lit area, they sipped hot cocoa and nibbled on snacks. In addition to reading their favorite books to the students, the teachers also shared some of their fondest memories of having the stories read to them as children. It was a wonderful bonding experience that brought home the true small town feel of Stephentown Elementary.
This evening was just a part of the reading incentive program designed by School Librarian Eileen Roder in collaboration with the Stephentown faculty and Shared Decision Making Team. The program is called, “Ice Scream for Reading” and is part of the annual Books and Beyond Program. The goals of the reading program are to increase reading achievement and encourage reading at home as a part of a regular routine. The Books and Beyond program seeks to show children and families that reading introduces children to new people, places and exciting ideas and helps children acquire a love for reading, which in turn will have a powerful and positive influence on them for the rest of their lives.
Family Reading Nights will be held at the Stephentown Memorial Library. Many thanks to Eileen Roder, colleagues and parents for putting together such a wonderful program.