By Payton Tholstrup

In 1998, The National Education Association declared March 2nd as Read Across America Day in honor of Theodor Seuss Geisel’s birthday. Better known by his pen name, Dr. Seuss, this day recognizes the impact he had on reading. Dr. Seuss has written some of the most popular children’s books of all time, including titles such as Green Eggs and Ham, The Cat in The Hat, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and more. Many of these books have been adapted into movies as well. In total, Dr. Seuss has sold over 600 million copies of his work.

Schools, libraries, and various other organizations now celebrate Read Across America Week to encourage a love of reading in children and teens. Read Across America Week can also help bring the community together.

Lincoln Elementary and Garfield Elementary in Clay Center will both be celebrating Read Across America Week March 4th-8th.

Stefanie Lane, principal of Garfield Elementary School, shared that they will be celebrating by having spirt week. Each day, students and staff will have the opportunity to dress in different themes.

Monday: Read My Shirt (wear clothing with words)

Tuesday: Team Up To Read (wear team gear)

Wednesday: Hats Off For Reading (wear a hat)

Thursday: Reading Makes Us Bright (wear sunglasses and bright colors)

Friday: Snuggle Up With Reading (Pajama Day!)

Matt Weller, principal of Lincoln Elementary, shared how they have been celebrating. Classes are currently trying to get all 50 states colored on a coloring sheet. Every time a classroom reader visits (this can be someone inside or outside of the school), they get to color a state on the sheet. “Classes that get this will get to have me read them a book on the roof on Friday, March 8th,” he said.

Read Across America Week can also be celebrated at home with your child. A few ideas you can incorporate include:

· Read with your child.

· Watch a movie adapted from a Dr. Seuss book.

· Visit the library.