Photo By James Tamura | Sgt. Lawrence Peters reads Dr. Seuss’ "The Sneetches" to Gaylene Terry’s second...... read more read more
KADENA AIR BASE, Okinawa, Japan – Excitement and joy filled the hearts and faces of students at Bob Hope Elementary School as U.S. Army Soldiers served a “Green Eggs and Ham” breakfast kicking off the Read Across America program March 3, for Dr. Seuss’ birthday.
Soldiers from the 10th Regional Support Group adopted the school earlier this year and now visit the students and faculty periodically helping by teach curriculum.
During the morning both students and Soldiers gained insight into the incredible background and contributions brought on by the legacy of Theodor Seuss Geisel, known to us as Dr. Seuss.
Starting the readings March 7, the Soldiers invaded eleven first and second grade classrooms to demonstrate the fun of reading to eager children and to introduce the imaginative worlds of Dr. Seuss.
“Children pick up on everything and they know that we [the Soldiers] are here for them,” said Sgt. Jennifer Schaetzke, unit supply sergeant, who read "Thidwick the Big Hearted Moose" to a second grade class.
“Children have minds like sponges that allow them to learn, grow and mature,” said Sgt. Lawrence Peters, an information technology specialist.”
Peters was a student teacher for first and second grades before he enlisted into the U.S. Army, said to the class, “The story teaches you that you don’t have to look different to be special.”
“Volunteers who read in the school help educators model that reading is something everyone does, for a variety of reasons,” said Andrea Heeps, U.S. Army school liaison officer, U.S. Army Garrison Okinawa. “Providing mentors and role models, ensures that children see reading is something successful people do, throughout their day, and not just for ‘schoolwork’.”
“All studies and experience show that early exposure to a ‘literate rich’ environment is crucial to the overall positive educational experience of young learners,” said Heeps. “Dr. Seuss was an important influence in that he showed that words can be used in a fun, creative, and imaginative way, while teaching a valuable lesson.”
“The teachers and administrators truly love and appreciate the presence and support of our Soldiers in the classroom, as well as the overall school environment,” continues Heeps. “The impact that positive role models have for our children cannot be understated. Teachers are the backbone and structure of the learning environment. A volunteer shows a new and exciting world to a young learner. The sum total of input from many sources is what creates a unique and meaningful educational experience for a young learner.”
| Date Taken: | 03.10.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 05.12.2014 02:59 |
| Story ID: | 129503 |
| Location: | KADENA AIR BASE, OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 60 |
| Downloads: | 2 |
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