Read Across America was created in 1998 by the National Education Association (NEA). The reading event is held during the first week of March to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday, which is on March 2. This nationwide celebration focuses on building young readers’ love of books. This inspires young readers to view reading positively and learn lessons from the books they read.

During the first week of March, West Branch High School students read books to the elementary students for Read Across America week. They offered twenty minutes of their time on days they were scheduled to inspire the young readers. The volunteer readers during the week were Isabella Koleno, Emma Petriskey, Kyla Kephart, MacKenzie McBride, Gracie Eyerly, and Jordan Walker.

The elementary students looked forward to the high school students coming in; it was a true inspiration for all of them. Some of the popular books that were read were If You Give a Dog a Donut, Moose’s Loose Tooth, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, The Invisible Boy, Green Eggs and Ham, and Cat in the Hat. 

Mrs. Ashley White serves as the Elementary Title I Reading Specialist in the elementary school. White organizes this every year to make a lasting positive impact on young learners. White spoke on how impactful this was to the elementary school. “We have had high school student volunteers come down a few times over the years. However, when COVID came, it shut down a lot of our fun things we did with our high school friends down the hall. We are excited to get some of those traditions back! The impact our high school friends have with our elementary kiddos is so powerful. The high school students not only create a positive role model for our elementary kiddos, but they also create an opportunity for some that may not otherwise get the chance to speak with an older student. In addition, a bond with older students helps children feel more valued and comfortable in school. As teachers and staff also love when they come down, so we are able to see the great young adults they’ve turned into!”  

This week offers students the opportunity to learn from older students from the district and acquire the same positivity they are given. If you’re looking to be a volunteer reader for the 2026-27 school year, watch for an email from Ashley White to be able to leave an impact on these young readers.