Read Across America hailed a Rochester success story

Fire Marshall Tim Wilder from the Rochester Fire Department reads to students as part of Read Across Rochester last week. (Courtesy photo Rochester Public Schools)

ROCHESTER - The city's School Street School recently participated in Read Across Rochester.

Modeled after Read Across America, last week's event, which is held every year to coincide with Dr. Seuss' birthday on March 2, focused on highlighting the joys of reading through interactive events and activities.

From March 6-10, students, teachers and staff partook in different events each day, including decorating their classroom doors, guest readers, teacher "Switch-a-Roo" in which educators went to the below their grade to read stories; culminating on Friday when students dressed up as their favorite book character.

Additionally, each morning, a mystery staff member read a portion of "The Sneetches" story during morning announcements. Guest readers included Music/Chorus Teacher Lorrie Dodson, Special Education Assistant John Connor, First Grade Teacher Danielle Veno, Special Education/Para Educator Patricia Nadeau and Special Education/Para Educator Salvatore Guzzardi.

"We selected reading and showing the accompanying video of 'The Sneetches' because it illustrates a message of acceptance, which aligns with our vision of creating a thriving school community," Principal Principal Jennifer Hersom said. "As in years past, Read Across Rochester was a huge success. Students loved the week of activities and really got into the spirit of reading. Thank you to all our guest readers who took time of their day to come read to children."