Real Men Read Annual Event
Burnett Elementary School held its annual “Real Men Read event on Friday, December 9th. During this time, men from within the community came and read several books to students in all grade levels. Students gathered around the men as they read stories ranging from “I Promise” by Lebron James to “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Each reader was asked to share with the students why reading was important to them and the impact reading had on their lives. Both the children and the gentleman who came to read seemed to enjoy the event. When asked why this event was important, Lynn Chabayta, the media specialist and organizer said, “It shows our Tiger Cubs that it’s crucial for everyone to read, even adults. It’s imperative to see men reading, because often times they don’t have role models outside of the school to show them the importance of reading.” One of those men, Pastor Robert Vest
explained to a group of first graders why reading was so important to him and his job. “I have to read a lot every day to prepare my sermon,” he said. Local entrepreneur, Paul Howard Jr. encouraged fourth grade students to read and further their education while reading one his childhood favorite books, “Tar Beach.” This event lasted throughout the day and was very successful. Mrs. Chabayta plans to continue hosting it at Burnett annually. “It gives students the opportunity to see why reading is so important,” she says, “And that means a lot.” We strive to instill the love of reading to all our students each and everyday!