Pathway School of Discovery recently celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday during Read Across America week in early March. The hallways transformed into the world of Dr. Seuss including a vibrant display of Truffala trees, Red Fish and Blue Fish, and even appearances by Thing 1 and Thing 2.
“There was a lot of excitement,” said Jessica Shivers, second-grade teacher at Pathway. “Students were eager to see what the next day would bring with a new theme and new books.”
Staff spent the week putting together daily celebrations, such as wear hats day, wacky clothes day, and all-green day. The week concluded with students dressing up as their favorite Dr. Seuss character on Friday.
“On Friday, you saw The Grinch, Cat in the Hat, One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish, greens eggs and ham, and of course, Dr. Seuss,” said Shivers.
Parent volunteers also were invited to participate throughout the week by reading Dr. Seuss books aloud to different classes. The school aimed to incorporate Dr. Seuss into the week to inspire kids to find joy and fun in reading.
“Dr. Seuss Week and Read Across America goes beyond a week at Pathway,” said Shivers. “It kicks off a month-long reading challenge, where classes compete against each other and across grade levels. Students who achieve reading challenges are highlighted for their success, and we hope it encourages sustained reading throughout the rest of the year.”
This celebratory week also allows the school to incorporate reading skills across multiple subjects as scholars study the author's life, engage in STEM activities, write in rhymes, and task students with reading challenging words.
“Read Across America Week is vital for our students, especially in the age of technology, as it gets students engaged in reading and gives parents a chance to be involved in their child’s education,” said Shivers.