Encouraging of Culture of Readers
Librarians, Teachers, and Administrators at the five elementary schools in the Pleasant Valley (IA) Community School District really know how to get kids excited about reading. I spent one full day at each elementary school, and a love of life-long learning was evident in every nook and cranny. What great schools.
Hopewell
I knew my day at Hopewell would be special. Librarian Beth Campbell, staff, and students prepared for months. The #readit project on Twitter enabled me to see the book reviews of many Hopewell students in the weeks leading up to my visit. A group of boys did a project graphing how many of my books were read. This animoto video captures it all. My day began with an amazing Readers Theater performance of The Chicken of the Family and was filled was surprises along the way. Thanks to the PTA, students, teachers, and staff.
Riverdale Heights
Librarian Joel Haack’s funny directions brought me to Riverdale Heights school. Here, I was treated to a special delight in the school foyer: the sixth graders set up a zoo in celebration of the zoo in Good Crooks: Missing Monkey. The sixth graders and teachers, definitely fans, also dressed up like Billy & Jillian. I loved meeting everybody enjoyed being serenaded with The Elephant Song! Thanks to all!
@maryamato The Good Crooks! Happy Halloween! #pvspartans pic.twitter.com/h24ajzgxhj
— David Barber (@6Barber) October 30, 2015
Cody
The entire school met first thing in the morning and music teacher Kristi Gray led all the students in singing some of my silly songs. Librarian Carol Halverson and staff made me feel so welcome. I particularly enjoyed the way students were chosen to introduce me at each assembly. They wrote and delivered fantastic introductions. Big thanks to PTA President Mindy Al Sheikha and the parent volunteers for lunch.
Bridgeview
A storm blew into LeClaire, along with a tornado. Luckily no one was injured. Librarian Diane Fight was waiting for me in the wind to make sure I knew where to park! The school gave me a warm welcome with some special surprises! Students not only sang for me, but also danced for me. The 6th grade Author Committee taught the younger kids a dance to my Skunk song. The entire school lined up in the hallway and gave me a send-off! So fun.
Pleasant View
Librarian Bev Anderson was the coordinator for my entire adventure. Big thanks to her for all the arrangements. The school was ready to learn and did a great job listening and learning. Thanks to the PTA and Stephanie Pim for the Iowa gift basket!