First Lady Crissy Haslam Participates in Read Across America

Nationwide reading event to promote the importance of early literacy

NASHVILLE – First Lady Crissy Haslam read to hundreds of students at Red Boiling Springs Elementary School in Red Boiling Springs, Tenn. today as part of the school’s Read Across America celebration. Sponsored by the National Education Association, Read Across America is a nationwide reading celebration that takes place annually on March 2—Dr. Suess’ birthday. Mrs. Haslam joined Red Boiling Springs students in viewing their school-wide book parade featuring floats depicting scenes from their favorite books and read with students following the parade.

“Read Across America is a great opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of reading to children at an early age,” said Mrs. Haslam. “Literacy is the number-one predictor of a child’s ability to succeed in later grades.”  Read Across America, also known as “Dr. Suess Day,” is the nation’s largest reading event to highlight the importance of developing a love for reading at an early age with more than 45 million participants. Across the country, schools, libraries and community centers are bringing together children and books to celebrate literacy.

“Fostering love for reading from the start is one of the best things we can do to prepare students for success in the classroom,” said Mrs. Haslam. “Dr. Suess books and the annual celebration of his work are special opportunities to provide fun and exciting reading experiences for children.”