Story by: Nancy Bonds, GCCISD Director of Communications

De Zavala Elementary School brought reading to life during Read Across America Week with a campus-wide celebration filled with creativity and a love for books. Organized by librarian Donna Kocian, the week featured engaging, Dr. Seuss-inspired activities designed to spark excitement and encourage lifelong reading.

The celebration began with a playful “Seuss-y” theme, inviting staff and students to join in the fun. Staff enjoyed daily treats and friendly competitions, while classrooms participated in a campus-wide door-decorating contest, transforming hallways into colorful, book-inspired displays.

Hallways also became hands-on learning spaces, with younger students practicingrhyming and patterns and older students participating in creative literacy challenges. Activities encouraged participation from students, staff, and entire classes, creating a shared reading experience.

A highlight of the week was the opportunity for students to hear from guest readers, including staff from Goose Creek CISD, community partners, and local leaders. District personnel and Partners in Education from the Rotary Club volunteered their time to read aloud to students.

Baytown Mayor Charles Johnson read There’s a Wocket in My Pocket! To Ms. Morris’s second-grade class, sharing a personal connection to the campus as a former YMCA after-school site director at De Zavala in the early 2000s, making the visit especially meaningful for students and staff.

“Our students and teachers truly enjoyed the read-alouds, the activities, and the celebration of the written word. This certainly could not have happened without the help and support of district personnel and our Partners in Education,” Kocian said.

Each day also featured themed spirit wear, adding to the festive atmosphere, while students visited the library during regular circulation time for special read-alouds.

Kocian said her goal was to create a joyful experience centered around reading. “Even though Read Across America and Dr. Seuss parted ways many years ago, there is still magic there. My goal is to get kids excited about reading through one of the most amazing children’s authors of all time.”

Through collaboration and community involvement, De Zavala Elementary’s Read Across America Week provided students with meaningful opportunities to connect with books and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.