Children at the ECEC Participate in Read Across America …

 In a series of four assemblies, held over two days, all of the 300 plus Pre-K and Kindergarten students at the Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC) in Dedham, were able to participate in the Annual “Read Across America” event held at the school.

 Principal Paul Sullivan and Special Ed teacher, Dr. Mary Joyce, hosted the animated Dr. Seuss short story, “Sneetches” for the students in the gym, while Kindergarten teacher Julie Lally, dressed as the Cat in the Hat, worked the crowd. There was a room full of wide-eyed boys and girls – each wearing a Seuss item they had made in school – following along until the end!

 For the past 17 years, the National Education Assoc. has held Read Across America on or about the March 2nd birthday of beloved children`s author, Dr. Seuss. Currently, almost 50 million Americans take part in this program, showing our children the importance of reading. Born in Springfield, Ma. on March 2, 1904, Theodor Seuss Geisel published almost 50 children`s books throughout his life. It was in the 1950`s however, that his popularity soared, with the release of his most famous books – Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham.

 At the end of each assembly, Dr. Joyce tied this story in to her on-going Book of the Month feature and had all of the children stand and “Take a Readers Oath.” To add to all of this excitement, Ms. Lally had written a grant proposal to the folks at the Dedham Education Foundation (DEF) and was able to purchase nearly 400 Scholastic books to hand out! Each child in the school received his or her own book to bring home and further their growing love of reading.

 Sometimes, spending time with these children, the youngest in our school system, does wonders for your outlook on life. The ECEC teachers and staff spend countless hours, not only teaching our children “how to read” but planting that little seed in each of them to “enjoy reading.” Great job everyone.

 Story and Photos by: Joe Kilroy