Students from Valadez, Melrose and Rio Vista “Read for the Record”

On Thursday, Oct. 27, eighth grade students from Valadez Middle School Academy hosted first graders from neighboring Melrose Elementary School and Rio Vista Elementary School for a school-wide reading event titled “Read for the Record.”

This year, about 600 PYLUSD students took part in this literacy movement. First grade participants from Melrose and Rio Vista partnered with their eighth grade “buddies” from Valadez to read the book, “The Bear Ate Your Sandwich,” written by Julia Sarcone-Roach. This year’s eighth graders also participated in Read for the Record as first graders seven years ago. The entire quad of Valadez was filled with eager readers, as each age group took turns reading and discussing the message of the book.

Following the reading session, students participated in small group activities that fostered a joy of reading and mentorship. Two Placentia Police Department K-9 officers also provided a demonstration with their dog partners.

Additionally, all three schools are hosting a fundraiser titled “Quarters for K-9s” in an effort to purchase life-saving Kevlar vests for Placentia’s K-9 units. All funds collected will be donated to the Placentia K-9 Foundation. The collection will run from Oct. 26 through Nov. 4. Please visit any of the three school sites to make a contribution today!

Honored guests included Superintendent and Master of Ceremonies Dr. Greg Plutko, Board of Education President Judi Carmona, Board of Education Vice President Karin Freeman, Board of Education Clerk Carol Downey, Board of Education Trustee Eric Padget, Deputy Superintendent Candy Plahy and Assistant Superintendent of Personnel Services Kevin Lee, in addition to district directors, school principals and valued teachers.

Read for the Record is a global campaign sponsored by Jumpstart, a national early education organization. The purpose of the event is to support high-quality early learning by mobilizing millions of children and adults to take part in the world’s largest shared reading experience by reading the same book on the same day.

By participating in this event, PYLUSD helped close the word gap, one word at a time, by promoting reading to all students. The entire morning was filled with invaluable bonding experiences, as well as opportunities for students to demonstrate their leadership skills.

Click here for our Facebook album titled “Read for the Record 2016.”