BES needs volunteers to read a book, share a smile

Published Feb. 20, 2009
By Staff Sgt. Tammie Moore
52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Bitburg Elementary School is calling out for volunteers to share the joy of reading with students on Read Across American Day, March 2.

"This nationwide reading celebration takes place each year on the birthday of beloved children's author Dr. Seuss, who epitomizes a love of learning," said Lisa Carlson, BES administrative assistant. "We invite everyone to help us celebrate by volunteering to read.
"Our goal is to have every child in our school reading with a caring adult or high school student for at least 30 minutes," Mrs. Carlson said. They can bring their favorite book or their own or use a books provided here. The children will be excited to see them. They are open and appreciative of any adults who show interest in them.

Volunteers are also encouraged to share how reading impacts their lives to help children understand how important reading is to their future.

"Volunteers are critical to the success of this event," said Joe Lovett, BES principal. "One of the best community builders we do is Read Across America Day. This generates good feelings with our parents and community. People want to be part of their community and in student's lives, but are not sure always on 'how to.' Coming in to school and reading to students is one of the very best ways to start their involvement as it is a very safe place, plus they know a teacher will be there to help."

Volunteers are needed from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. a shift can be as short as 30 minutes. The school staff will be providing treats and lunch for volunteers. After volunteers sign-in at the school's front desk they can decide if they would prefer to read, listen to children read or participate in reading theme-related activities.

Volunteers should keep in mind that the children are young so their attention spans are not long -- 15 to 30 minutes is probably long enough in any particular classroom, Mrs. Carlson said.

There is no deadline to sign up to volunteer.

"We will be happy to have anyone and everyone come in to read," Mrs. Carlson said. "If folks find unexpectedly that they have time, we would be pleased if they would come in. When we work together as a community to encourage our children to read, to quote Dr. Seuss, 'There's no limit to the places we can go.'"

Principal Lovett said he believes events like this are much more than a fun way for children to pass the day.

"In an elementary school our primary students are learning to read toward the goal of reading to learn," he said. "Our teachers plan their day to maximize every minute into an opportunity to develop reading skills. From the first day of our Sure Start and Kindergarten classes the students are working with letters and words. As students advance they use the skills they have learned to make reading to learn. Reading is the most important academic skill we work on in school."

For more information or to sign-up, call 452-9215 or 06565-61-9215.