Students from Ms. Dorsey’s book club elective class participated in Read Across America Day by reading to toddlers at the Essex County College Child Development Center in Newark. These 7th and 8th grade students joined in this volunteer effort with members of the Junior League of Montclair-Newark (JLMN), an organization which participates annually in this special nationwide reading initiative and which has been a great partner to Link over the years. Created in honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday by the National Education Association, Read Across America is designed to “promote the joy and importance of reading.”
Linkers had a great time sharing their love of reading with the very young at the Center! 8th grader Alexandra was pleased by the welcome they received at the Center. The children were excited to receive some new books, courtesy of the JLMN, but seemed equally thrilled to have some new “friends” visit and read to them. She commented that one little boy bonded very tightly to 7th grader Damiano, and began to cry because his new friend had to leave!
Link appreciates the invitation from the JLMN to participate with them in this special day devoted to reading for it exposes our students to places and people outside of Link. It also was an opportunity to “give back to others,” a life practice Link tries to instill in students.
