Pashley Elementary students (and parents) are participating in a special project this month. It’s an all-school book club called One School, One Book™ that fifth-grade teacher Jen Sala introduced to the school community a couple years ago, and which Library Media Specialist Krissy Neddo is helping carry out.
“One School, One Book™ is a novel program in that children of each grade level will all be listening to their parents read the same book, explains Neddo. “Strange or daring as that may seem, it actually makes sound educational sense. Reading professionals recommend reading material out loud that is beyond a child’s own reading level. Jen and I also believe that you can and should continue reading chapter books with your older children, even when they are able to read by themselves. This month we have selected a title that can be followed and understood and enjoyed by younger students, but will still captivate and stimulate older children,” adds Neddo.
Every family will receive a copy of the same book–George Selden’s The Cricket in Times Square–and will be asked to read it together at home over the next few weeks. We hope you will carve out some time so that your family can participate in this special activity. Generally, you will be asked to read about 15 minutes each night.
Reading aloud at home is valuable because it better prepares your child to be an effective reader, and it is also a fun, worthwhile family activity. With the One School, One Book™ program, we aim to build a Community of Readers at our school. Everyone–students, parents, teachers, even administrative staff will all be following along together.
In school, your child will be invited to answer daily trivia questions to encourage and reward attentive listening. You will soon find that your child will take pride in knowing and anticipating the details of the story. In class, students will explore the book through activities and discussion. You will want to make sure your family keeps up so that your child can be included. Throughout the month, everyone will be talking about The Cricket in Times Square!
For even more information, check out the One School, One Book webpage on the PES Library website.