Pine-Richland Middle School to Host Storytelling
Festival in Honor of Dr. Seuss' Birthday

 Students at Pine-Richland Middle School (PRMS) joined millions of their peers across the country to celebrate the joy of reading on Friday, March 2, 2007 as they celebrated the birthday of Dr. Seuss.   Research shows that when children read outside of school, they do better in school. 

So from coast to coast, teachers, celebrities, community members and parents joined together to find ways to rekindle our students' passion for reading.

Pine-Richland Middle School’s Storytelling Festival activities did just that. The first session of the storytelling festival included second grade students from Hance and Wexford Elementary Schools and the second session included students from Richland Elementary School.

Dr. Seuss made an appearance himself at the start of each session in the PRMS Auditorium. Math Teacher Bob Utz dressed in costume welcoming students, reading an excerpt from one of Dr. Seuss’ book and leading students in the “Read Across America” pledge.

PRMS students wore red and white Cat in the Hat headwear while they greeted and interacted with second graders through out the day. Principal Dr. Kathleen Harrington shared a story about one of her bearded collies. Younger children had the opportunity to meet the star of the story. 

This nationwide reading party was part of NEA's Read Across America, sponsored by the National Education Association and many of America's leading literacy, youth and civic groups. About 150 middle school students were involved in presenting originally written and illustrated story books, stories with story board illustrations, and written and scripted puppet shows with positive messages for children in the library. 

PRMS students have been busy writing, illustrating and rehearsing their stories and puppet shows with their English teachers.  In addition, they will read some of their favorite childhood stories, including Dr. Seuss' books. 

Three hundred second grade students in the Pine-Richland School District visited the middle school as guests for the day.   PRMS students have been recognized locally and nationally for their stories written for younger audiences.  In the past, they have presented stories in various forms to elementary schools within the district and across the city.  Their stories have been published in local and national publications and won national recognition. 

Students decided to start hosting a celebration of what they enjoy doing all year long. They wanted to share that joy in a special way with the younger audiences they want to reach.   

“We think this day is the most fitting and festive celebration of student authorship in honor of a man who has brought the joy of reading into our lives,” said Dr. Susan Frantz, English Department chair.