The Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District announced on April 15 that children and families are invited to the “Celebrating Books and Trees” event, which will take place on April 26 at Orchid Heights Park in Middleton. The event aims to promote a love for reading and an appreciation of nature by offering free books and potted trees.
The initiative highlights the district’s focus on literacy as a key educational priority. Organizers say it is important for children to become strong readers early in life, as this can impact their future success. “As a retired educator myself, I know the value that happens if an individual can really get an early start and then nurture that love for reading,” said John Daly, member of the Friends of Pheasant Branch Conservancy Education Committee. “It really is a big deciding factor as far as the potential success for that individual.”
The Friends of Pheasant Branch Conservancy and Madison Reading Project have organized this annual literary celebration with support from sponsors such as the John C. Bock Foundation. This year’s theme centers around nature and trees, aligning with Earth Day on April 22 and Arbor Day on April 24.
At the event, families will receive free books about nature in both English and Spanish while supplies last, along with potted plant trees to take home. Kevin Short, arborist for the City of Middleton, will demonstrate proper planting techniques during the event. “Kids will get free books from us and take them home to read about trees, plants, and wildlife,” said Tom Kobinsky, grants coordinator for Madison Reading Project. “Hopefully, it’ll lead to changes in their lifestyle to help conserve our natural resources.” Daly added: “It’s really meant to be a family fun event… I’ve done a lot of work with people and benefitted from watching what happens across generations.”
According to the official website, Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District promotes community engagement through extracurricular activities while supporting education from early childhood through high school with programs focused on literacy among other areas.
The district has achieved notable academic results including earning top ACT composite scores among public non-charter schools in Dane County and Wisconsin according to its official website. Dr. Dana Monogue served as superintendent according to district information.
Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District serves communities in Middleton and Cross Plains in Wisconsin according to its official website. The district aims not only at preparing students academically but also understanding their backgrounds so they are equipped for global challenges while remaining inspired locally.
The “Celebrating Books and Trees” event takes place Sunday, April 26 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., where attendees can also enjoy complimentary ice cream treats.