Senator Kelly Celebrates Community Read-Aloud Day

Shelton – Senator Kevin Kelly (R-21) spent Monday morning reading to a class at Shelton Intermediate School during their annual Community Read-Aloud Day. The special event coincided with Read Across America Day, the National Education Association’s celebration of Dr. Seuss’s birthday.

“I was honored to receive an invitation to read at Shelton Intermediate School,” said Senator Kelly. “It is important to emphasize the value of reading at all ages. Reading is the key to a lifetime of learning.”

Kenneth D. Saranich, Headmaster of Shelton Intermediate School, invited Senator Kelly to read his favorite story, poem or other piece of literature. Senator Kelly selected President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.

“I chose this speech because it exemplifies the power of words. President Lincoln made many sacrifices so we can enjoy freedom and liberty today. His words are his legacy. By reading and reliving his speech, we can reaffirm and understand our origins,” said Kelly.

After reading, Senator Kelly tied the speech to the current conflict in the Ukraine.

“Lincoln’s words were meant to motivate a divided nation. Today’s civil unrest abroad reminds us that history is not so distant. When we face turmoil, we can look to the leaders of our past for inspiration.”

According to Saranich, inviting local leaders to read at this annual event sets a good example for the students.

“Actions speak louder than words, and hearing community leaders read sends a powerful message,” said Saranich.

Before leaving, Senator Kelly gave the seventh grade class a book on Lincoln, so that interested students could continue to read and learn about the president in their own time.