Educators agree that reading is one of the primary building blocks of life. It enables children to discover new worlds. It sets fire to their imagination, boosts their learning potential and gives voice to their ideas. It helps develop language skills and strengthens self-image.

It isn’t surprising then, that teachers at Bi-Cultural Day School jumped on the opportunity to further encourage reading among students and nurture their love of learning by making the most of Read Across America Day – a nationwide celebration of the joy of reading. Launched in 1997 by the National Education Association, Read Across America Day takes place annually on March 2, the birthday of one of the world’s most influential and beloved children’s authors, Dr. Seuss. Born Theodor Seuss Geisel, the late Dr. Seuss, who would have turned 113 years old this year, gifted the world with 46 classic works.

But for Bi-Cultural students in grades pre-k through 8th grade, one day of celebration simply wasn’t enough.

“Our students were fully immersed in Read Across America all week with literature activities abounding in both general and Judaic studies,” reports Bi-Cultural Middle School teacher Adrienne Robinson. While younger students focused on Dr. Seuss, older students opted for more advanced literary works. “We wanted students of all ages to see the importance of a love of literature and literally curling up with a good book,” she said.

The celebration began on Monday morning, February 27, when students arrived at school to find each classroom door magically transformed by the teacher into the cover of a Dr. Seuss book. Later in the week students ‘buddied’ up for an activity in which older students read books to younger students and discussed their favorite books.

“These opportunities truly warm my heart and show the incredible care that our students have for each other,” said Head of School Jackie Herman. “We are truly a community school that prides itself on academic excellence and nurturing the soul in a warm and encouraging way.”

CAP: Bi-Cultural students “buddied up” to enjoy a good book.