Keyser, WV — Students, faculty, and staff from West Virginia University Potomac State College joined the festivities at Keyser Primary School as celebrity readers for Read Across America Week, sharing their love of books and literacy with young students.
The weeklong celebration, which promotes the joy and importance of reading, welcomed the Potomac State College community to engage with children through storytelling and interactive activities.
“It was such a rewarding experience getting to know the kids in such a short period of time, and hearing all their stories that related to the book we read was so much fun! The giggles and conversations I had with them was super special,” PSC Student Marissa House said.
Throughout the week, volunteers from the College visited classrooms, reading beloved children’s books and sparking the imaginations of Keyser Primary’s eager listeners. Their participation supported the mission to foster a lifelong love of reading and learning.
"We were thrilled to partner with WVU Potomac State College during Read Across America Week at Keyser Primary School! PSC employees, students, and staff brought stories to life in our classrooms, PAWS the mascot spread joy with bookmarks, and Dr. Wallace inspired our students by sharing his own story. It was joyous week and a fantastic celebration of reading and community," KPS Library Teacher Juli Ravenscroft said.
For the volunteers, the experience was equally rewarding. "Participating in Read Across America Week was such a great experience. Seeing each grade level’s reactions to PAWS, the guest readers, and the stories being read was a great way to kick off each morning,” said Kara Hotchkiss, director of Residence Life
“I started each day by asking the students why they felt reading is important, and a very common answer was that reading helps you learn and go to college. As a professional in higher education, it is rewarding to know students are excited for a future full of learning,” Hotchkiss added.
Even PAWS, the PSC mascot, joined in the celebration, dressing to match the daily themes. The end of the week was capped off with a visit from Potomac State College President Jerry Wallace and his dog, Ace. Dr. Wallace and Ace presented a children’s book he co-authored called “ Ace the Mighty Goes to Knight School.” The presentation was given to all students in grades K-4 at KPS, highlighting the collaboration between the Cougars and the Catamounts.
"Ace's story highlights a small dog with grit, determination and perseverance. Throughout the story Ace is doubted but keeps a positive attitude and never gives up. Ace's three rules for students to remember includes: 1) reading is fun, 2) try your best, never give up, and 3) always be kind,” Wallace said.
Read Across America Week, celebrated annually in early March, honors the birthday of Dr. Seuss and encourages communities across the nation to embrace reading. The partnership between Potomac State College and Keyser Primary School exemplifies the spirit of this initiative, bringing different generations together through the magic of books.