Derby students celebrate Read Across America

Irving School students Jasmine, Nataly, and Kailyn, from left, at the READ-In with Jessica Glassman, Literacy Specialist, dressed as the Cat in the Hat.  / Contributed photo

DERBY - Irving School celebrated Read Across America Monday with its first READ-IN.  

The event was organized by Irving School Literacy Specialists, Keely Edwards, Jessica Glassman, and Tricia Marini. 

Students started the day with a book swap, where they brought books to school to trade with their peers.   

New Haven Reads donated 500 books, so all students had the opportunity to go home with a gently used book.  

Later in the day, students gathered in the gymnasium and were led in a reading oath by Matthew Conway, Superintendent of Schools. The purpose of the oath was to inspire the students to become life-long readers. 

Stacy Chambers, Assistant Superintendent, read Dr. Seuss' classic story, The Cat in the Hat, to students.

The chorus sang a Read Across America-themed song.

Mayor Anita Dugatto spoke to students before they got cozy with a stuffed animal, a warm blanket and a good book for the D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Read) time.  

This is a press release from Irving School.