Celebrating Read Across America Day in Enfield

By: Senator John A. Kissel

Last week I had the pleasure of participating in Read Across America Day at the Enfield Head Start.

Each year cities and towns across the United States encourage and support an annual reading awareness program. This program calls for every child to celebrate reading and ultimately encourages mentors to pick up a book and read to a class or a group of students. This day is traditionally observed on March 2nd, Dr. Seuss’s birthday.

Starting in 1997, Read Across America day was created by a small reading task force, supported by the National Education Association. By 1998 the United States saw the largest reading celebration in the country’s history.

Studies have shown that kids who are motivated and spend more time reading on their own ultimately do better in school. No matter what educational aspirations students have, helping them to achieve these goals through reading is something I am happy to support.

I had a great experience last week – all of the children in the class at the Enfield Head Start sat and listened as we read Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle.

Growing up I was always fortunate to have parents and teachers that encouraged me to read, and I think that really helped me succeed in my educational goals. This is why I think it is important, as a legislator, to get out of the office in the communities to show young children that reading really is fun and gratifying.

As a Senator I will do my best to continue to encourage students in North-Central Connecticut to pick up a book and enjoy reading.