Oberlin Elementary School students took home a copy of “Mr. Popper’s Penguins,” by Richard and Florence Atwood, in an effort to begin reading it with their families, according to a news release.
During January and February, students and families will read the book together at home while celebrating and exploring it at school, the release said.
The book unveil took place Jan. 11.
It’s all part of a national family literacy program called One School, One Book from nonprofit Read to Them designed to strengthen the educational connection between home and school, said Kristi Walter, literacy coach at Oberlin Elementary, in the release.
According to Bruce Coffey, director of programs for Read to Them, reading a book together turns out to be a terrific way to unite a school community and increase parental involvement.
“Reading aloud at home ensures students come to school prepared to read and to succeed – in school and in life,” Coffey said in the release.
One School, One Book is the flagship program of Read to Them, a national nonprofit based in Richmond, Va.
The organization’s mission is to create a culture of literacy in every community.
“The secret sauce of family literacy is to create a symbiosis between home and school. When students see their book being read and shared and discussed at home and school, they are surrounded by the culture of literacy,” Coffey said.
Families will read and discuss the story and adventures of “Mr. Popper” and his penguins, at home.
In school, students will experience a live reading of the first chapter, answer trivia questions, and engage in creative extension activities, said Oberlin Elementary third-grade teacher Christine Hohman in the release.
Oberlin Elementary School Principal Felicia Webber said she welcomes back the One School, One Book program to the school community because it helps promote the power of literacy.
“Over the next few weeks, we hope to make reading a vibrant, exciting and interactive experience at home, in the community and at school,” Webber said in the release.
