POUGHKEEPSIE — Read Across America Week will be celebrated from March 2 to 6 — it begins on the birthday of the beloved author, Dr. Seuss. Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known by his pen name, Dr. Seuss, has authored some of the most popular children’s books of all time, he wrote 60 books, which sold over 600 million copies. He wrote his first book, And to Think I Saw it on Mulberry Street in 1937. Given Dr. Seuss’ impact on the reading world, his birthday (March 2) was declared Read Across America Day. This day ushers in Read Across America Week and Read Across America Month.
The National Education Association launched Read Across America in 1998 as a year-round program to celebrate reading. The N.E.A. aims to encourage reading and educate people about its benefits, especially among children and young adults. Events are organized across the nation by schools and organizations to promote reading.
To celebrate Read Across America Week this year, Senator Rob Rolison will read the S.F.B Morse Elementary School. Staff from United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region will be joining Sen. Rolison for Read Across American Day. They will spend time reading with children as well.
Melissa Clark, the President of Community Impact at UWDOR shares, “Because of these activities and others in our community young children have access to the foundation they need to succeed in school and in life. At the United Way, we are striving to provide essential resources like books and educational toys to families in need.” United Way of the Dutchess Orange Region is passionate about education and literacy. One of our education initiatives is to “Increase opportunities for positive youth development and literacy services to develop positive behaviors and/or read proficiently at grade level.”
What should members of the community do if they are interested in participating in the Read Across America events? Numerous events are organized across the nation to promote reading among children, ask about a list of events at your local library or neighborhood school. Plan to attend or get your children to attend. You could even volunteer at or host your own reading event to celebrate. There is no better way to celebrate Read Across America Week than to read a book. Whether it is a classic, a best seller, or a self-help book, grab a book and read!