On Wednesday morning, the Eagan Rotary club began its annual reading program at the Eagan Community center. The first of five groups consisted of 274 first graders from 4 elementary schools gathered in the ECC gymnasium to meet the Minnesota Twins baseball mascot, "TC Bear." Judging by the loud voices, many of them are Twins baseball fans. Then students broke into 20 groups of about 20 kids where an Eagan Rotarian or other volunteer read two books. Dentist Glenn Perkins read to this group. Bused back to their schools, all the kids each later received their own book. The second morning session welcomed 261 kids from 3 schools at the ECC. On Thursday, 99 kids at Oakridge Elementary School enjoyed the reading and book handout program. Finally, on Friday, 290 kids from 2 schools gathered at Red Pine Elementary School or Wescott Library for their reading program. Read kids read!
It's a terrific program. May I make a suggestion? For a strong outreach experience, try the program in inner city Minneapolis and St. Paul schools. I would believe that there is a higher percentage of kids that have adults read to them in Eagen than in some of the above schools. Immigrant children in St. Paul schools, for example, would really appreciate your efforts.
ReplyDeletePS. Haven't visited recently because I have a typical Minnesota summer cold with sleeplessness and lack of stamina--not much fun! Haven't been around much as a result! Have a good week-end!
To read real books you can hold in the hands - instead of reading on the PC - must be essential to show all kids. Good luck with the project.
ReplyDeleteVery cute kids pic!
ReplyDeleteA great program! I'm sure the kids enjoy it!!
ReplyDeletei wish that program be held on my town. i wish :D
ReplyDeleteNote to Kate...there are two very large Rotary clubs in Mpls and St Paul who need to hear your voice. The Eagan club clearly is focused on Eagan....Note to Andie...let Leif know where you are and he can get in touch with the Rotary club in your city
ReplyDeleteAnother great project by the Rotary! Cheers!
ReplyDeleteThis is the kind of things that make the diference in this world! Go ahead!
ReplyDeleteI read 3 books to 20 first graders this morning at Red Pine Elementary school - it was so much fun! After reading, I gave each one of them a book as a gift from our Eagan Rotary Club.
ReplyDeleteTo find a local Rotary club in your area, please go to www.Rotary.org Look for the "club locator" button
A wonderful program for the children. Yes, children do have loud voices and from my experience they also have selective deafness.
ReplyDeleteCheers.
Melbourne Daily Photo
En travel tid.
ReplyDeleteEt flott tiltak/ En glimrende ide!
GOD HELG til alle i fam.Hagen
one continues to be amazed by the things possible in your world. please have a wonderful weekend and nice new month as well.
ReplyDeletedaily athens
I love to read stories to kids. I'd join you.
ReplyDeleteThe most wonderful part about reading and telling stories to kids is that you get an attentive audience.
ReplyDelete