First Lady Participates In Read Across America

Mrs. Haslam Shares Her Passion for Reading at Two Middle Tennessee Schools

NASHVILLE – First Lady Crissy Haslam read to hundreds of students at two middle Tennessee schools as part of Read Across America.  Mrs. Haslam made her first stop at Hillsboro School where she read to 300 students in Kindergarten to fifth grade.  After sharing some popular children’s books at Hillsboro School, the First Lady traveled to Gladeville Elementary to sit down with nearly 90 second graders for story time.

“Literacy is the number-one predictor of a child’s ability to succeed in school,” Mrs. Haslam said.  “We have room to improve literacy rates in Tennessee and committing to reading to children is a significant step toward that goal.”

The National Education Association’s Read Across America started on March 2, 1998 to encourage reading to children and to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday.  Schools, libraries, community centers, churches and hospitals all over the country participate in the annual Read Across America event.

“It is amazing to watch a child’s face light up when you share one of their favorite books with them,” Mrs. Haslam said.  “Reading is not only a critical part of an educational foundation, it’s a chance to share a positive memory with a child.”