Year Five of Reading Aloud
As a (mostly) retired public servant, I am eager to resume my reading aloud with primary students this school year.
To say that the process is ‘rewarding’ is an understatement. I am often paid in hugs. While the classroom teachers with whom I have worked value my presence every week, it is the students of grades three, four and five who show their genuine appreciation.
A typical Thursday morning involves driving to the school and schlepping the three-ring binders of my prepared-and-rehearsed readings for the day. In the classroom, I place my binder(s) on a stand-up table or lectern and wait for enough silence to commence. I have never sat for a reading period. Call it the performer (aka ‘ham’) in me, if you will, but I believe it is impossible to read with engagement — and gestures — while seated. Call me ‘old school’ if you like.
Over the last few years, I have become an invited member of my county chapter of Read Aloud West Virginia, a vetted-and-authentic organization of volunteer readers, link below. I am sure that your state has an organization or educational department with similar mission. As an in-school volunteer, it is also necessary to be fully researched as fitting (background check, policy-compliance and related, each year) by my local school district.
