The Hidden Forest Elementary School cafeteria was bustling with excitement as kindergarten, first and second-grade students filled the room. Quietly and patiently, they lined the cafeteria floor and waited for a live performance of the beloved children's book, ''Thank You, Omu!''
In honor of Jumpstart's 'Read for the Record', Hidden Forest and millions of children around the nation rallied around the importance of a high-quality early learning experience. This year, Hidden Forest invited special guest Dr. Donna Newman, Associate Superintendent of Instruction and Campus Administration, to narrate the official campaign book as campus staff and students brought the story to life with colorful props and costumes.
Dr. Newman told the story of a generous older woman who makes a fantastic pot of thick red stew, which brings all of her community members over to her home for a taste. By the end of the story, she shares a lovely feast with her neighbors, where everyone contributes to the meal.
"I had a great time reading to Hidden Forest students," said Newman. "The students really seemed to enjoy the performance, and they were so attentive! Mrs. Lackey, the librarian, and the staff at Hidden Forest were amazing. It was a lot of fun!"
The children at Hidden Forest weren't the only ones who were thrilled with the performance. Parents in attendance enjoyed an opportunity to see the campus come together for an engaging, creative event.
Jumpstart's 'Read for the Record' brings together millions of people in classrooms, libraries, community centers, and homes across the U.S. every year. The annual campaign was launched over a decade ago to highlight the importance of building early literacy and language skills for every child, so they have the opportunity to enter kindergarten prepared to succeed.
