By Andrew Hackmack
The school's read-a-thon began with Principal Dr. Lisa Conte reading to the students over the public address system. Then there was the mystery reader swap in which classes were told stories by another teacher. Free reading time followed and parents also dropped by to share books with their child's class.
Every year the school raises money for the Ronald McDonald House with a walk-a-thon and dance-a-thon, "so we decided to have a read-a-thon," said Jen Mechetti, one of the school's reading teachers.
Mechetti explained that students were asked to get pledges from family members for time spent reading in school last Friday. The event raised $2,300 for the Ronald McDonald House, an organization that supports the health and well-being of children.
The highlight of the day was Baskets for Bucks for Books. As students cheered them on, teachers had one minute to make as many baskets as possible, and would donate $1 for each shot made. Money will go to purchase books for children at the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island. Funds raised by teachers were matched by the Carbonaro PTA. The PTA also provided free bookmarks and ice cream to children for the read-a-thon.
Several students in grades 4-6 read books aloud to younger children. Fourth grader Eric Nelson chose "The Pigeon Wants a Puppy," part of a series by writer and illustrator Mo William. Eric even had a few props to liven up his storytelling. "I figured since a lot of kids like the Pigeon books, I should do one of those," he said.
Third-grade teacher Andrea Carra had three storytellers visit her classroom. "They've done amazing jobs -- each one a little bit different," she said. "It's wonderful for the children to listen to a fellow student in the school tell a story."
Mechetti said that 437 students participated in the reading activities. "They were so excited about this day," she said.
Conte explained that the school has a 25-book club which encourages students to read. She said the read-a-thon was also a chance to help children reach their goal to become 25 book readers. "It was a good way to motivate the students to continue reading," she said.
The principal noted that reading is a big part of every school day. The March 20 read-a-thon was a reminder of just how important it is to each child's education. "The wonderful thing is that every child has a chance to participate," Conte said. "We're also doing a wonderful event for the community with our pledges and Baskets for Bucks."
