WJHSD elementary schools celebrate Read Across America week

From Monday, February 25 through Friday, March 1, 2019, West Jefferson Hills School District elementary schools celebrated “Read Across America” all week long with special reading programs and activities in honor of beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss. Each day was filled with unique learning themes designed to encourage reading and build literacy skills. Therapy dogs and their handlers visited the schools to help students practice their reading skills. Studies have shown that reading to nonjudgmental pets can help children improve literacy skills and boost self-esteem. Thomas Jefferson High School seniors were also on hand to participate with the young readers in fun-filled reading and STEAM activities. There were several book swaps, a visit from Kennywood Park’s Kenny Kangaroo and endless opportunities for reading throughout the week. The reading celebration wrapped up with a special birthday party for Dr. Seuss at the Pleasant Hills Public Library!