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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Jewell Williams
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Williams reads to Thomas May Peirce students to promote literacy, learning
PHILADELPHIA, March 4 – State Rep. Jewell Williams, D-Phila., read to Philadelphia School District students this week in celebration of the National Education Association's "Read Across America" program, an annual initiative to help promote literacy and reading to children.
Williams spent a day with students at the Thomas May Peirce Elementary School, located at 23rd and Cambria streets.
"We all want kids to get excited about reading and learning, and one of the best ways we can do that is by example," Williams said. "It was a lot of fun to go into the schools and show students that I also enjoy reading."
The school's principal, Terrell Parris, and classroom teachers Keri Townsend, Vanessa Howard and Yvonne Hogan introduced him to the students, who greeted Williams with applause. Williams read one of Dr. Seuss’ most beloved books, "Green Eggs and Ham," to more than 40 preschool students. He said students hung on every word and knew the book extremely well.
"I know that I am dating myself, but I had not read this book in at least 49 years," Williams said. "It is a classic, fun story that really draws children into the fundamental joy of reading."
Williams said he was impressed that so many of the students he met were eager to learn and added that it is a tribute to them, and the efforts of their teachers and parents.
"The students obviously enjoy going to school, and I truly enjoyed meeting with them to encourage and support their enthusiasm about learning," Williams said. "The teachers at Thomas May Peirce are doing an exceptional job preparing these young students with a quality education."
Read Across America is observed March 2, the birthday of children’s author Dr. Seuss who turned 108 years old. It is considered one of the largest one-day literacy celebrations in the country.
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