By Ashley McCarty
The West Union Elementary School has given over 12,000 books to its students through the Book of the Month Program.
Spearheaded by Principal Ben King, the Book of the Month Program started four years ago with a spark of inspiration and a desire to fuel the literacy of young students.
“Four years ago I saw Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Program, and I thought that was excellent. I looked into it, but it’s all for children up to five years old. So, I started looking at different ways that we could implement something like that for kids here, specifically for students kindergarten through third grade; kids that are learning to read and trying to build up their library,” said King.
Since its inception, businesses in the community, as well as anonymous donors, have contributed to the program.
“It has been my baby, so to speak, but there’s been a whole lot of support. I would hate to name community members for fear I’d forget someone, but there are several individuals and community members who have donated money that has helped get this jump started,” said King.
Every month, each student gets a free book to take home. Additionally, through an individual partnership, students get a book every year on their birthday.
“I think the ability to read is so important and trying to instill that love of reading, that interest in reading is extremely important. Given our area, and knowing that children are spread out and may not always have access to go to a library, to try and build up their personal libraries at home — I know not every child is going to read it — but if some kids take it home to read it, it just exposes them to more print. It kind of goes along with our literacy efforts that we’re focused on here at the school, which has been, in large part, just trying to break down barriers and get as many books in kids’ hands and get them reading as much as possible,” said King.
Nearing 12,500 books donated to date, King hopes the program will continue to grow.
“I think just exposure to print gives them exposure to the world. There’s a quote by Dr. Seuss and it says ‘The more that you read, the more places you’ll go.’ When you read, you can be anywhere. So, I think exposing kids to what is out there beyond what they know of now is important. It gives them an idea of what is out there. Books can provide insight into the world. We use books and I’ve used books in the past for Red Ribbon Week. We’ll pick a book and use a literary theme from that. That’s usually to emphasize good behavior, anti-bullying and those type of expectations,” said King.
Books can be used in so many ways, he said.
“If anyone is interested in supporting the Book of the Month Program, feel free to contact me. We hope to continue this program. It’s not just these kids that are adding to their library, but they have younger siblings that are going to see those books, too. Even if they can’t read at the time, gaining knowledge of the print is important,” said King.
If you wish to contribute to the Book of the Month Program, contact King at ben.king@ovsd.us or (937) 544-2951.
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April 28, 2021 at 12:40AM
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Elementary Book Program gives over 12,000 books to young students - The People's Defender
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