United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley participated in its fourth year of Read Across America Day, a national initiative sponsored by the National Education Association (NEA) and Dr. Seuss Enterprises, on Friday, March 1^st. More than 120 volunteers from 25 local organizations read to Pre-Kindergarteners – 2^nd graders in 14 local schools. Education is one of four United Way priority areas. Students who read at or above grade-level are more likely to succeed in school and in life.

Now in its 22^nd year nationwide, Read Across America Day celebrates Dr. Seuss’ birthday (March 2^nd) and teaches children the importance of reading every day.

“This is certainly a fun day for both students and our volunteer readers,” said Rachel Chambless, Coordinator of Volunteer Engagement for United Way. “We are so glad to be able to partner with our local schools again to promote and encourage literacy skills, which we know are critical for children to be successful in school and life,” she added.

Schools visited were Muscogee County School District’s Brewer Elementary School, Davis Elementary School, Dawson Elementary School, Dorothy Height Elementary School, Downtown Elementary Magnet Academy (DEMA), Forrest Road Elementary School, Fox Elementary School, Johnson Elementary School, Lonnie Jackson Academy, Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School; Phenix City Public School’s Ridgecrest Elementary School and Westview Elementary School; and Russell County School District’s Ladonia Elementary School and Mt. Olive Primary School.