Published: November 21, 2008 10:51 am      

AES begins new reading program

Alvarado ISD started a new reading program on Nov. 12, and several members of the Alvarado community descended on Alvarado Elementary South to read to students as part of the very first Indian Friends Reading Day.

“We want our children to have a love for reading,” said Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Ellen Cooper. “This activity places an importance on reading that cannot be communicated during reading instruction.

“By our community leaders taking the time to come to a classroom and read, they are sending a message that reading is important and that the students in that classroom are important.

“We plan to repeat this activity at the other elementaries in the second semester. We look forward to the emphasis on academics and learning and the partnership with the community.”

Each classroom was visited by a community volunteer, ranging from lawyers and insurance agents to city leaders and school district administrators.

The day also gave students a chance to learn about their community.

“Teachers and students were excited to have guest readers in their classrooms, and the students enjoyed learning about their special guests,” said Alvarado Elementary South principal Dandy Early. “A special book was chosen for Fire Chief Richard Van Winkle — “Dot the Fire Dog” — by Toni Lesley’s kindergarten class. Her class was thrilled to have the chief read it to them.”