How One Local School Raised $11k by Reading Books

by Lorrie Ham

Shirley Hills Primary School students celebrated “I Love to Read Month” in February with their Second Annual Read-a-Thon. The successful event raised nearly $11,000.

Students spent a total of 120 minutes reading Feb. 22, with the exception of half-day kindergartners, who read for 60 minutes. Students were asked to collect pledges for their efforts.

“In the past we have always done product sales, but we were ready to try something new,” explained Shirley Hills Primary School Principal Ann Swanson. “While cookie dough, soup and other product sales have been successful at the school, only 40 to 50 percent of the sales actually went to Shirley Hills.”

All funds raised at the Read-a-Thon will go directly to the Shirley Hills PTA for school activities, technology, the playground and special projects.

In addition to the Read-a-Thon on Feb. 22, Shirley Hills also welcomed a group of mystery readers. Made up of Shirley Hills parents, grandparents and staff, the mystery readers each chose a great book to read and wore costumes to match. After the books were read in each classroom, the Mystery Readers paraded through the school so that everyone could see all the costumes.

“We had 20 outstanding Mystery Readers. They were amazing and far exceeded our expectations,” said Swanson. “They wore crazy costumes to match their books and read with such enthusiasm. Our goal was to promote the love of reading and they did a great job.”

While the readers were a big hit with the students, Swanson said the mystery readers also had a great time.   

“Our wonderful PTA supports so many events and projects at Shirley Hills and we are so thankful for all they do,” Swanson said.  “Thank you to our readers and to all of the families who donated. Your support is so appreciated!”