Librarian Arika Galkowski planned different activities to excite and entice reading. The week kicked off with a book swap November 5 which allowed students to update their  home libraries.

“Students dropped off books and were able to select new ones. It was really successful and kids got to choose books that interested them,” Galkowski said.

A visit to the Farmington Public Library was also on tap that day. Students were treated to a tour conducted by children’s librarian Joanne Moloney. All Regional School Unit 9 students have complimentary borrowing privileges, regardless of the town the live in.

On November 6, students were challenged to be tech free. The fun part of turning off technology was the chance for one student and one classroom to win a game for participating, said Galkowski.

“The idea was for parents and students to turn off gadgets and then log what they did instead,” she added.

Hailee Harkings won the individual prize. Emily Bowdin’s first-grade class won the class prize with 14 students participating.

Prime Time Reading Night was held November 7 featuring author and illustrator Marty Kelley. Families were invited to an evening of storytelling. The event has been a school tradition for more than 20 years.

“One of the best parts is everyone comes in their PJ ‘s, even teachers,” Galkowski said. “This was an amazing evening with a great group of kids and their families.”

Marty Kelley is the author and/or illustrator of over 20 books for children. His books have been nominated for state awards. Galkowski said Kelley read from two books during event. Children and families also broke into groups for reading.

“Devaney, Doak & Garrett Booksellers help us find an author every year,” Galkowski said.

On November 8 everyone in the school took part in D.E.A.R. – Drop Everything and Read.

“There was an announcement over the loud speaker to drop everything. No matter what we were doing everyone picked up a book and read for 15 minutes, including teachers and ed techs,” she said.

The final day was the Book Character Parade where children and teachers dressed as their favorite book characters. Harry Potters, superheros, ninja turtles, princesses, and one lone ladybug carried books to show bystanders where they could read about the characters.

“We try really hard to play up the importance of characters,” Galkowski said. “The idea is for students to focus on character development and really get to know who they are portraying.”

“That whole week was really successful and everyone really enjoyed it,” she added.