Students At Berkshire Elementary Find That It Pays To Read
Last September, County Executive Jack Johnson told a packed assembly of Berkshire Elementary School Students that if they read 25 books by May 2008, he’d dole out a dollar for every book completed.
First Lady Leslie Johnson shares a pose with students, Principal Pearl Harmon and Sylvia Taylor of Community Relations during her visit to Berkshire Elementary School for Career Day. The First Lady served as keynote speaker.
Photo: Prince George's County Government
So on a recent visit to the Forestville school, Johnson made good on his promise and the 156 Berkshire students from Head Start to the sixth grade that stepped up and chose to expand their reading habits were rewarded with $25 gift cards from Target. The group also received a “Twenty Five Book Campaign” certificate signed by Johnson in recognition of their hard work.
School districts across the country have started 25 books campaigns in an effort to make students better readers and writers. Many educators say good reading and comprehension skills can’t fully develop unless an effort is made to consume a wide variety of books that extends beyond what is read in the classroom.
Some districts encourage students to choose reading buddies – family members, friends or volunteers – that can help them reach their goal. Students were also encouraged to start discussion groups about the books they read and to keep a log so they could keep track of their progress.
“I am so very proud of each of you for responding to my challenge,” Johnson told the group. “You exceeded my expectations. I especially want to thank the parents for teaching your children to accept challenges. Your children's success today was instilled by you.”
--PGS Staff
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