Building a love of reading

La Cañada civic leaders volunteered to take time out of their schedules to read to La Cañada Elementary School students Tuesday, as part of the school’s annual Community Read-In.

There was a wide range of readers on hand, from parents and JPL employees to City Council members and La Cañada Unified School District officials, including Supt. Jim Stratton.

The Community Read-In is one of his favorite days of the school year, Stratton said.

“If you were facing disastrous budgets, where would you rather spend your time?” Stratton said with a laugh.

Twenty-five readers participated in the event throughout the school day, each reading a children’s book to one of the classes. Jennifer Suh, the Community Read-In activity coordinator, said the event was a success.

“I think it was enjoyed by the students, teachers and readers alike,” Suh said. “With this event, I am always impressed by the enthusiasm and support that our community shows for our kids.”

While reading, Stratton paused before turning a page to ask the kids what they thought might happen next or for the definition of a particular word.

“I think this an opportunity for them to reflect critically as you ask them questions — it’s a nice little community event,” Stratton said.

The class quizzed their superintendent as well, asking him to reveal his favorite sports teams. In the end, the students are taught a lesson, whether it’s subconscious or not, when their superintendent or mayor reads them a story, Stratton said.

“They see that adults like to read, they have favorite books and it’s something that’s still important in their lives,” he said. “I think it builds that life-long love of reading.”