Ready… Set… Read….

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Read A ThonThe annual, school-wide Read-a-Thon begins today! The intent of this long held Bixby tradition is to encourage the love and practice of reading.

IMG_9590During this month long fundraiser, students are asked to record their home reading on the log that was provided during Group Time. While we do hope to raise some funds for author visits and other special events, the goal is for 100% participation in outside reading and keeping track of what was read or listened to. Asking for sponsors to donate in support of reading is desirable, but optional. Bixby Reader Recommendation forms are also available for students and families to suggest books they love to others.

mrmuttcoverThis year, Caldecott winner, Janet Stevens will visit the school on Friday, January 22nd to share her picture books and creative processes with Preschool through 5th graders.

For all students, reading “little and often” (10 to 30 minutes most everyday) positively influences student achievement through improved decoding skills, an expanded vocabulary, and deeper comprehension.

The school read-a-thon also kicks off further support of home reading practice for first graders. They will begin taking books home and returning them every Friday from now until the end of the school year. Please watch for their black “Be Bright – READ” book bags this Friday.

We will celebrate the end of the read-a-thon with a pizza party for lunch on Wednesday, February 17th!