Rotary Recognizes Readers
by Lorine Parks
“These boys and girls will remember this day for the rest of their lives.” So said Downey Superintendant of Schools Dr. John Garcia, and from the smiles on the children’s faces you could see he was right.
One child from each K-5 Downey school, accompanied by their Principal no less, had come have lunch with us and then to be congratulated and given a certificate of honor, for being the most improved reader in the class.
Each principal read each child’s story of prowess. These second and third graders, many of whom, a year ago, spoke no English, had raised their reading level by as much as nine steps, during the past year. Special indeed.
Each was cited for not only being a good reader, but for contributing in class discussions and being a good citizen. The girls had big bows in their hair; many had sparkly dresses and shoes. One was probably wearing her big sister’s dress; another was in a turquoise and white lace confection. The boys all had clean shirts or tee-shirts.
“They have all persevered to be better,” Dr. John said, and many enjoy reading at home as well as on school time. All had made a commitment to success. Rotary club photographer Dan Fox took a picture of each child with Dr. John and the school principal, while each held their certificate. As President Larry Garces said, “If you can read, you can be anything you want in life.”