Literacy week

It’s not often middle school students are treated to a rousing rendition of the popular children’s book “If You Give a Moose a Muffin.”

And it’s even rarer that a professional hockey player is the one reading it.

Schools in the Santa Rosa County School District were treated to a variety of tall tales and an array of activities last week during Literacy Week, a state-sanctioned event to promote reading and literacy across the board.  Schools throughout the county marked the occasion with special readings, contests and programs, much to the delight of students and teachers alike.

Superintendent Tim Wyrosdick, who made the rounds last week as a “celebrity” guest reader, said he was honored to be part of the occasion.

“It’s always good to be part of these events,” he said.  “I enjoy being here and I really enjoy interacting with the kids.”

Wyrosdick, who read the critically-acclaimed book “No More Dead Dogs” to students at Holley-Navarre Middle School, also said activities like reading to students was one of the best things about his job.

“I really do have a lot of fun doing this,” he said.  “Getting students excited about reading can set the tone for the rest of their lives.”

Students at HNMS were treated to story sessions hosted by Pensacola Ice Flyer hockey players, district officials, former HNMS teachers and community leaders like Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office deputies.

The weeklong series of events were endorsed by the Florida Department of Education, and were commemorated at schools across the state. 

In a press release issued at the start of the week, Education Commissioner Dr. Eric J. Smith said, “Reading is the foundation for every subject a student learns throughout their life. No matter what career you pursue, a solid understanding of literacy will help take you to the next level.”