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Jamestown Public Schools
Approximately 2,500 Jamestown Public Schools elementary and middle school students will bring home a copy of Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, and begin reading it with their families and class on Monday, May 8.
For the second straight year, JPS will take part in a unique, national family literacy program called One District, One Book, made possible by non-profit Read to Them, designed to strengthen the educational connection between home and school.
Staff and families from all eight JPS elementary and middle schools helped select Charlotte’s Web. Each school nominated titles that were available in both English and Spanish and then all staff and families voted from that list of nominations, said C.V. Bush Elementary School Principal Kate Benson.
“Reading a book together is another way to unite our schools and community,” Benson added. “We had so many community members volunteer to read with our students, or help with classroom projects that aligned with the book. The experience has been so lasting that last year, at a local sporting event, students from different JPS schools were talking with each other about their experience reading the WishTree!”
JPS will join schools and districts across North America who have undertaken this community literacy strategy by reading and discussing this classic story about a spider who weaves an elaborate plan to save a pig. In school, students will experience dynamic assemblies, answer trivia questions, and engage in creative extension activities including an upcoming field trip to a local farm.
“I am so excited that this year’s pick is Charlotte’s Web, as it is truly one of my favorite books that I remember reading as a child, as a teacher, and as a parent,” said Tina Sandstrom, JPS Chief Director of Schools. “It is a heartwarming and classic story of friendship that is beloved by generations of readers, and that makes it so special for our families and community participating in One District, One Book.”
“Spending time reading with a child is one of the most valuable gifts parents and guardians can give,” she added. “Taking the time from a hectic day to relax and enjoy reading with your child sends the important message that reading is worthwhile and helps develop a love of reading that will last a lifetime and also help our children develop vocabulary, listening, language, thinking, and life skills.”
