District Kicks Off First 'Summer Reading On The Lawn' Program

MORICHES, NY — Some of the fondest summer memories involve a good book — and instilling that love of learning early on is a lifetime gift for children.

To that end, Moriches Elementary School, in collaboration with the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library, recently held its first ever “Summer Reading on the Lawn”, where students were able to enjoy fun and educational stories along with snacks and refreshments.

Deirdre Redding, Moriches Elementary School principal, and Nikki Stallone, Moriches Elementary School assistant principal, along with 16 teachers and Rich Mugno, William Floyd committee on special education chairperson, and his certified therapy dog “Whill,” gathered at the school’s entrance to read children’s books that were selected by the students.

“This is our first year hosting this event, but we are hoping to make it an annual summer tradition at Moriches Elementary,” Redding said. “We want to help promote and generate excitement for reading and its importance over the summer. We planned this event as a fun way to gather our school community together to listen to books read by their beloved teachers and administrators as well as provide an opportunity for access to books from our local library.”

Along with the opportunity to hear stories read by William Floyd teachers, students had the chance to register for their own library cards and take books home with them thanks to the district’s partners at MMSCL who attended with their reading van and tent.

There will be a second “Summer Reading on the Lawn” on Wed., Aug. 1 at 10 a.m. — rain date Thursday, Aug. 2 at 10 a.m.— on the front lawn of Moriches Elementary School. MMSCL will once again supply dozens of books that will be available for checkout. The Moriches Elementary PTO will also be in attendance supplying snacks and drinks. The event is open to all William Floyd community members.

Moriches Elementary’s “Summer Reading on the Lawn” is just one of many reading programs available for William Floyd students this summer. Other programs include the elementary summer literacy program held in the high school through the middle of August. Session II begins on July 30. Click here for a student information sheet; registration takes place at the high school main office.

The William Floyd Teacher’s Story Corner” is held in the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library through Aug. 16 every Wednesday night and Thursday morning; click here for schedule. All literacy programs are still available for students to participate in.

Patch courtesy photo.