Madison Reporter

Elm Lawn Elementary School has launched its One School, One Book program, involving students from kindergarten to fourth grade. Each student received a copy of "The World According to Humphrey" by Betty Birney. Principal Lisa Rust stated, "Families have been encouraged to read it aloud together at home, and students have opportunities to engage with it during the school day."

The program began with an assembly featuring a skit about Humphrey by Mr. Cavill and Mr. Russell. Reading Specialist Tracie Rogers noted, "After the assembly, Humphrey has traveled to a new classroom every night. The students love interacting with Humphrey when he comes to visit." Students are reading the book at home with their families.

Program planning was led by fourth-grade teacher Jodi Alt and Ms. Rogers. They decided on participation after Ms. Alt learned about the initiative and saw its potential for family engagement and community building at Elm Lawn.

Ms. Rogers shared that students across all grades are enjoying the book: "It is inspiring kids to read." Some students are even reading it in Spanish.

Trivia questions about the book feature in morning announcements, adding another layer of engagement for students. Ms. Rogers emphasized the importance of family involvement: "Family involvement reinforces the idea that reading is valuable and enjoyable, creating a culture of literacy both at home and in school."