Gianna Harvey was thrilled when Humphrey visited her classroom on January 29.
McVay Elementary School is embarking on a very special project, an all school book club called One School, One Book. Thanks to a generous gift from the PTA, each student there has received a copy of the same paperback, The World According to Humphrey by Betty Birney. They have been asked to read it out loud with their families at home. In addition, to promote enthusiasm, the school has purchased a real, live hamster (named Humphrey, of course) that is on display in the front showcase. At the end of the unit, he will be raffled off and one lucky child will get to take him home permanently.
“With the One School, One Book program, we aim to build a community of readers at our school,” explained Principal Scott May. “Everyone – students, parents, teachers, office, cafeteria and custodial staff will be participating – so we can all reap the many benefits of the program.”
One School, One Book is unique in that youngsters at all grade levels will be focused on the same book. The World According to Humphrey can be followed, understood and enjoyed by younger students, but will still captivate and interest older children.
Pupils are being invited to answer daily trivia questions to encourage and reward attentive and active listening. Throughout the building various activities were also planned to further enrich the reading experience. To kick off the program, “Humphrey” visited every classroom. In addition, Westerville Public Library representatives dropped by to give book talks to each grade. Westerville North High School Spanish 4 students will come next week to teach Spanish. A Family Literacy Night will be held on February 10 that will include an author visit, a books swap, book fair and numerous literacy stations (the theme is Super Hero Readers). The culminating activity will take place on February 12, Dress Like Your Favorite Character Day, when there will be a school-wide read-in.