LA CROSSE, Wis., (October 28, 2024) – North Woods International School joined millions of readers worldwide in celebrating Jumpstart Read for the Record, a global event dedicated to promoting early literacy and the joy of shared reading. Over 250 students and staff gathered throughout the school day to read Piper Chen Sings by Phillipa Soo and Maris Pasquale Doran. The story, which highlights themes of self-expression, overcoming self-doubt, and family support, resonated with students as they connected with the characters and the power of storytelling.
The day included a special story walk, where pages of the book were displayed along an outdoor path, blending reading with physical activity. Students were guided by peers from Logan High School as they explored each page on their walk, adding a fun, interactive twist to the reading experience.
“Our permanent story walk installation has been a game changer,” said North Woods teacher Sara DePaolo. “It allows all of our students, regardless of reading level, to engage in a shared reading experience. Events like this help ignite their love of reading in a way that’s fun and memorable.”
The story walk, made possible through a grant from the La Crosse Public Education Foundation, adds over 800 hours of reading each year at North Woods, enriching the school’s community focus on health, unity, and literacy. As students walked through the story, they didn’t just build reading skills—they built lasting memories of learning outdoors, together.
“We hope that experiences like this inspire our students to see reading as a lifelong adventure,” DePaolo added. “By making reading a part of their daily lives, we’re helping lay the foundation for future success, not just in school but in life.”
Jumpstart Read for the Record, now in its 19th year, brings together children, teachers, and families across the globe for a shared reading experience that builds community and awareness around the importance of early literacy.
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