When students arrived at school last Wednesday at Curtis Elementary, they noticed their teachers were wearing mouse ears and some even had painted whiskers on their face. When they were questioned, their teachers said it was a special day and they were all in for a big surprise at the end of the day. The build-up for the students was the kick-off for “Curtis Reads,” a celebration intended to bring together their school and families to share the love of reading.
The kick-off assembly that was held outside included the arrival of three motorcycles and their riders with their saddlebags filled with copies of “The Mouse and the Motorcycle” by Beverly Cleary.
“Oh my gosh, that’s what I’m talking about,” said one of the first grade boys, thrilled and wide-eyed as they approached.
The riders, Denise Cordova, Christine Richardson and Calvin Carter, talked with students about their motocycles and gave out copies of the book to students answering their quiz questions. After the assembly, students returned to the classroom to receive their own copy of “The Mouse and the Motorcycle.” Over 700 copies were distributed to the student population.
Reading Specialist Sandra Koch said, “Curtis students have been involved in a 40-Book Challenge for the past two years. That means that all students, K-5, read at least 40 books by the end of the school year. The success of the 40-Book Challenge inspired us to take independent reading one step further and develop our own Curtis Reads Celebration.”
Koch said the committee was encouraged by their principal, Susan Pereira, and their assistant principal, Nicole Boone, to expand their plan of Curtis Reads to include a book for every student.
“The reading team from Curtis, affectionately known as the Ladies of Literacy, organized the classroom sets of books and distribution at the kickoff,” she said. “The program response has been overwhelming. Every child has a book in hand and the excitement continues.”
The literacy committee looked at several book titles. “The Mouse and the Motorcycle” appeals to all ages and agreed that it would reach the students in kindergarten all the way through fifth grade.
“Teachers are using the text in the classroom as read alouds as well as during independent reading times,” Koch said. . “Trivia questions are given each Friday through March 11 with prizes awarded for selected students from each grade level with the correct answer.”
The final event will be on March 15. The PTA is hosting a “Paparazzi Going to the Movies Night.” The event will begin with a motorcycle parade beginning at 5:30 p.m. traveling down Route 10 to Curtis Elementary. Students and families will be able to talk with the riders and see their bikes up close. “The event will also include bookmark making stations, and a photo spot for parents and students to take their ‘Oscar Winning Smile Selfie,’” said Koch. To conclude the event, families will retreat to the cafeteria to watch the movie, “The Mouse and the Motorcycle.” The PTA is providing popcorn and bottled water will be sold.
