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SALT LAKE CITY -- Two Utah elementary schools dedicated this week to reading, so KSL gave them a High 5 via Chopper 5.
Our helicopter made a surprise visit to Woodstock Elementary. Students didn't know they were on the playground to celebrate their reading efforts of 4,000 minutes this week until they heard the buzz of Chopper 5 making a "Literacy Landing."
Woodstock's theme has been "Reading is Groovy." Shirts and signs had peace symbols along with reading slogans.
During the week, students learned to disco dance. One of the high points of this reading week is a read-a-thon fundraiser, where parents and supporters can donate for each minute read. The school has saved thousands of dollars and now have enough for a playground to go along with their new school building.
"Isn't it incredible that the kids were the ones who read their way onto the playground, literally?" said PTA President Cindy Schmidt-Nielsen.
Next stop on our flight path, Bountiful's Muir Elementary, home of the Leo Lions. Leo the mascot, cheerleaders and more enthusiastic students cheered again as the chopper landed.
Here, the school goal was to turn off the TV and to spend that time curled up with a good book.
Every day, students took part in a different activity to generate enthusiasm about reading. Friday, students will dress as their favorite book character.
As part of our Read Today literacy program, we celebrate noteworthy reading efforts. Get your school involved in the Read Today program and let us know why you deserve a Literacy Landing.
Email: deanie.wimmer@ksl.com
