On Thursday, January 15, librarians and avid readers of all ages came together to experience the joys of reading at SBHS’s third annual SB Reads Night. From 6:30 PM to 8 PM, packs of excitedly chattering children in bright colored coats and slowly strolling parents flowed through the hallways, taking in all of the unique booths and reading corners. Even the Vibe itself had a table and partook in reading aloud our articles, sharing our pitch to entice the community to make reading our quality pieces of journalism a part of their daily routine.
This year’s theme, “strong roots, strong readers” is in direct alignment with the district’s theme, carrying over the message of laying a solid foundation for students to grow as readers. By planting the seeds now, those like SBHS librarian and media specialist, Mrs. Kate Hanusosky, hopes to start students on a trajectory of loving literature. “Reading is so fundamental and is such an important part of just growing up and learning, that we want our students and the community to know that with our partnership with the public library, [SB Reads] is really not just one event in one spot, it’s really a theme to connect us and build our community” said Mrs. Hanusosky.
All throughout the first floor of the high school, four read-aloud sections were set-up by volunteers, geared toward the large percentage of families with young children attending the event. While there technically was a schedule, it often operated open-mic style, with any staff or club members able to go right up and read a story to passers-by. Administrators like the new superintendent, Dr. Bernard Bragen, and SBHS Principal, Peter Varela, read-aloud the titles My Shape is Sam by Amanda Jackson and Click, Clack, Moo by Doreen Cronin respectively in the Cafeteria Alcove. Throughout the night, many other guest readers were able to share other classic picture books, including Board of Education members, admin, and district officers.
Though the reading corners were enticing, many of the audience seats stayed empty with so many activities happening at once. Once you walked in the Main Entrance, families had real-life “choose your own adventure” book paths to take. To your left, the Blue Cafeteria held a guest readers station and activities by the SB Public Library. Passing a book nook in the alcove, event-goers could get free refreshments of hot cocoa and cookies donated by the PTO while listening to Crossroad South Middle School’s Jazz Band. A book raffle was also set up near the entrance, giving families the chance to take home some of the picture books from the event. To your right, the Auditorium Hallway was collecting new or lightly used book donations. Inside the library itself, local history, student-written poetry, and even chess skills were shared with the community.
Down the “hands” hallway (nicknamed for its signature handprints which alumni parents enjoyed searching for with their children), the Vibe, She’s the First, and SB Earth took up stations. From developing hydroponics, to seeing what’s new on the Vibe, parents and students alike seemed interested, if not a little surprised, at what these high school clubs were accomplishing and the positive impact it could have on their lives in the district.
Helping it all happen, student volunteers signed up to receive National Honors Society hours in exchange for their time directing and informing the multitude of families, staff, and community members in attendance. Mrs. Hanusosky, who was also in charge of these volunteers, said “It was so nice to see [the volunteers] representing the school and interacting with the families, especially ones with the little ones, cause they’re often intimidated when coming to the high school. But when they see someone so personable, it really makes a difference.”
Roaming around, the mascot of the Chick-Fil-A Leadership Academy, a cow sporting an “eat mor chickin” advertising board, as well as SBHS’s own Viking mascot (his official name not being agreed upon by the general student body) could be seen taking pictures with kids and causing mischief throughout the night.
With this year’s SB Reads Night being a success for librarians, clubs, and participants alike, Mrs. Hanusosky is very excited to continue this event and hopes to see attendance grow even more for next year!
