Family reading time First-graders at Motley Elementary School were given free books and had the opportunity to read with their parents at the conclusion of their First grade students at Motley Elementary School presented their annual “Running Start Program” April 23, at the school.

They performed songs (accompanied on guitar by Mrs. DiGiovanni), recited poems about Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln; and took part in a video presentation, all of which focused on books and reading.

“We’ve studied those two presidents because they both

loved to read,” said first grade teacher Mrs. Blowers. “Books were very important to them.”

As part of the Running Start Program, students were encouraged to read 21 books each within 10 weeks. “Our goal is to have them read by May 10,” Mrs. Blowers said.

In conjunction with RIF (Reading Is Fundamental), the students were each given two free books at the conclusion of the program, thanks to monetary donations from local businesses.

“Angela Johnson is our RIF Coordinator,” Blowers said. “We really appreciate all of her hard work this past year.”

In their video, the students shared about the kinds of books they like to read. They also had a chance to read to their parents from the books they had been given.