Mayor Gitshier reads to students in Mr. Marcin’s second-grade class.
Lowell – Lowell Community Charter Public School (LCCPS) proudly celebrated Read Across America Day on Friday, March 13, with more than 50 guest readers from the Greater Lowell community. The event brought together local leaders, educators, and students to celebrate literacy.
Distinguished guest readers included Mayor Erik Gitschier, State Senator Vanna Howard, State Representative Tara Hong, State Representative Rodney Elliott, City Councilor Rita Mercier, City Councilor Dan Rourke, and many prominent business and community leaders. Additionally, student-athletes from UMass Lowell, joined in the festivities, reinforcing the importance of reading and education.
This year, breaking with tradition, the event featured two books: A Dozen Delicious Donuts, written by Chanda Ouk Wolf, for students in grades pre-K through third, and Hidden Figures, by Margot Lee Shetterley with Winifred Conklin, for students in grades 4-8.
For the younger grades, this day was extra special because Chanda Ouk Wolf, the author of A Dozen Delicious Donuts, was a guest reader.
Ms. Wolf was also the guest speaker at a reception for the readers, where she spoke about her family’s journey from Cambodia to Lowell and how she came to write this sweet Cambodian-American story that uses food to bring communities together and celebrates the sharing of traditions across generations. Traditional Cambodian donuts, “nom kong,” were featured at the reception for readers to taste, handcrafted by Ms. Pick of Lowell, and declared by everyone to be “delicious!”
The Read Across America event, held annually at LCCPS, is a cherished tradition that promotes the joy of reading and fosters a love for literacy among students and community members alike. This annual event holds particular significance as it pays homage to Nixon Alert, a beloved member of the LCCPS family.
“Read Across America Day is a special opportunity to unite our community through the power of books,” said Nicholas Leonardos, Executive Director of LCCPS. “Our students benefit tremendously from hearing diverse voices share stories that reflect the richness of their own backgrounds. We are grateful to our guests for their time and commitment to literacy.”
The event, generously sponsored by LGA CPAs & Business Advisors, was a heartfelt tribute to Nixon’s memory, highlighting his enduring impact on the LCCPS community.
“We are incredibly grateful to the many community leaders and volunteers who took the time to read with our students today,” said Robert Gignac, Chief Operating Officer of LCCPS. “Their presence and engagement send a powerful message about the importance of literacy and education. This event is significant as we honor Nixon’s legacy, reminding our students of the power of resilience and the strength of our community.”
A Dozen Delicious Donuts read by author, Chanda Ouk Wolf. (Photo courtesy Henry Marte)
