This year DLEACS celebrates ten years of participation in Read Across America, the nationwide annual campaign to promote children's literacy. A critical aspect of child development is the formation of reading skills. Children need exposure to books at an early age because research continuously demonstrates that when children listen to stories, they gain essential language skills. Learning loss is prevalent amongst students in the pandemic era, hence now more than ever, we must take multiple steps to ensure academic growth. 

Hundreds of students in grades kindergarten through three listened intently to their respective classroom ambassadors read books to them including, "The Little Engine That Could" and "The Girl Who Thought in Pictures". Principal Brewer inspired activities for grades four and five to the give audience to Senator Corey Booker, who shared a link for children to listen to him read a book entitled, "Keep Your Head Up", on his streaming video cast. CEO, Christopher Garlin is a favorite in kindergarten as he always brings written stories to life in the classrooms of  DLEACS' youngest children. Finally, Keith Cummings, a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, of which Principal Brewer is also a member, joined us once again at our annual event to read to our 2nd grade.

In honor of Dr. Seuss's birthday, this year, eighth grade star readers were selected to read to younger students. Presenters at the 2022 Read Across America event were:

Reader's Name               Grade                    Class                               Books Read to Students

Amy Bash                        Gr. K              Ms. Nkrumah's class             "The Girl Who Thought in Pictures”

Amy Abeba                      1^st Gr.            Ms. Gamble's class               “My Nanna is a Ninja”

Michael Ruck                   1^st Gr.            Ms. Zeta's class                    “Giraffe's Can Dance”

Veronica Fortune             2^nd Gr.           Ms. Futrell’s class                 ”The Little Engine Who Could”

Karonna Johnson            3^rd Gr.            Ms. Seriosa’s  class               “When I Told You”

Faculty and Visiting Readers

Keith Cummings              2^nd Gr.           Ms. Salazar’s class               "The Incredible True Story Book ”

James Brewer                  3^rd Gr.           Ms. DeCastro's  class           “When I Told You”

Christopher Garlin            Gr. K             Ms. DeArmas’ class             “Ginger”

We offer a huge thank you to Mrs. Slack who organizes Read Across America at DLEACS. She along with with our teachers and faculty work to make the day a meaningful and resonating occasion. Click here to see photos.