by Becky Bard, SMART Reading Site Coordinator at Hayhurst Elementary School
On Thursday, March 12, SMART Reading celebrated a major milestone: the 5,000,000th book given away to a child in Oregon! The celebration took place at Hayhurst Elementary School. SMART Reading staff and Hayhurst Principal DC Re-Bloom organized the celebration.
Noteworthy presenters included Oregon’s First Lady Amy Kotek Wilson, who read the humorous picture book The Smart Cookie aloud, and Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong, Superintendent of Schools for Portland Public Schools, who helped hand out copies of the book to the kids.
An adult who is a former SMART student, Stephen Phan, shared his story, which was interesting and engaging for the kids. SMART’s Executive Director, Jessica Bowersox (a former Hayhurst SMART reader) led the event. Portland Public School Board members Christy Splitt (a Hayhurst neighbor) and Rashelle Chase-Miller also attended.
Everyone seemed to have a wonderful time – especially the kids who got to take home a book and a decorated cookie.
We already know that Hayhurst is the best – now SMART Reading, the governor’s office and the superintendent know that, too!
Portlanders who are inspired to kick start the next million books may get involved as a volunteer; donate new or gently used books to any SMART area office; hold a book drive; or donate to the online fundraiser, For the Love of Books, allowing SMART to purchase high-interest, inclusive books for kids across Oregon.
photo credits: Stacy Goodwin and SMART Reading