It's Time for Read Across America

This year will mark the 19^th anniversary of the Read Across America Program initiated by the National Education Association (NEA). March 2^nd is the date for Read Across America Day as well as Dr. Seuss’ birthday. The program was established in conjunction with Random House Publishing and Dr. Seuss Enterprises. Throughout the country students are encourage to tread their favorite books and often teacher dress up as “ The Cat in The Hat,” probably the most widely read book of the day.

Other students often read to those in the younger grades and many participate in book reading contests and marathons. The possibilities are limitless.

Teachers can obtain information about Read Across America Day and get suggestions for activities, press releases, etc. by going to the NEA web site at readacrossamerica.org

To help with the celebration of Read Across America Day, Educator Partners in conjunction with GreatDay Bks LLC is offering a special sale on the adorable children’s book “Carrots for Charlie.” The book is a great read aloud story with excellent illustrations and a message about health and nutrition.    

Getting Ready for Presidents’ Day

When I was a student in elementary school, we celebrated two Presidential holidays. Abraham Lincoln’s birthday was on February 12th and George Washington’s was on February 22^nd. Little attention was paid to the other Presidents. Today, students everywhere can acknowledge the efforts of all of our Presidents on Presidents’ Day. These activities take on an even greater significance as 2016 happens to be a Presidential election year (if you haven’t noticed we are already in Primary season!).

There is a wealth of information on the Internet with websites full of classroom activities for all grade levels and abilities. Hera are a few that you may wish to review.

Nea.org. The National Education website has links, pdfs, printables as well as interactive maps for students to sink their teeth into. There is an abundance of Presidents Day activities here.

Scholastic.com – The publishers of Scholastic Magazine’s and books also have many activities for classroom use. Their materials include worksheets “ What was Life Like in George Washington’s Time?” There are also reprintable articles, craft suggestions and art project. There are also of course opportunity to purchase Scholastic books and DVDs about the Presidents. One activity that could be enlightening is “ If you were President, How would you run the Country?” How would you balance a budget? Who would you select for your cabinet or advisors?

Educationworld.com- this site has useful times lines and a discussion of the President’s role under the US Constitution.

Presidential Libraries.

Each of the past 13 Presidents has Presidential Libraries throughout the country. Their web sites provide an in depth look at that President’s life and accomplishments. (Example -www. Jfklibrary.org).

Library of Congress- (loc.gov) This web site will enable students to search the government archives for news articles speeches and photos.

There is certainly no shortage of materials to make this Presidents Day a meaningful one.

C.2016 J. Margolis