UTAH ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS CELEBRATE DR. SEUSS’ BIRTHDAY
SALT LAKE CITY — Thousands of Utah elementary students will be heard rhyming in unison this Friday and next Monday as they participate in Dr. Seuss Day, part of the National Education Association’s Read Across America initiative.
Organized by United Way of Salt Lake, more than 100 volunteers from American Express, JC Penney, CHG Healthcare, and other companies will read with students at elementary schools throughout Salt Lake County including Oquirrh Hills Elementary, Granger Elementary, Woodrow Wilson Elementary, South Kearns Elementary, Moss Elementary and Guadalupe School.
Volunteers will also participate in a number of other Seuss-inspired activities, including school-wide assemblies and educational games. Some volunteers have even tapped into the spirit of the event and will come dressed in Dr. Seuss-themed outfits, including the Grinch and Cat In The Hat.
The national event, now in its 18th year, is designed to encourage students to find the fun in reading. This message is especially important to these elementary schools involved – many are Title 1 schools, where 70-90 percent of students receive free or reduced lunch. Nearly all these students face economic or language barriers, creating additional academic challenges for them to overcome.
Participating elementary schools are United Way of Salt Lake Community Schools and part of collaborative partnerships with the Granite Education Foundation and Granite School District and dozens of nonprofit organizations. Community Schools serve as a resource for students, families, and the broader community. These schools create a web of support focused on improving academic outcomes for low-income students. Partners align academic programs and other resources such as financial stability, health and basic needs programs at the school.
**MEDIA OPPORTUNITY**
WHEN: Friday, February 27, from 9:30 a.m. to noon
WHERE: Oquirrh Hills Elementary School, 5241 S. 4280 West, Kearns
CONTACT INFO: Alison Cundiff, Corporate Volunteer Engagement Coordinator; 801-736-7726, Cell – 801-673-8830 or alison@uw.org
