One School,

One Read

To the Editor:

Sandy Hook School concluded its Fourth Annual One School, One Read celebration on Monday, June 12. Principal Donna Pagé originated this initiative in 2003 as a means of bringing our large school population together more closely as a community of learners. This year we participated in the shared read aloud of The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Catling.

We were able to connect to each other as learners in a variety of ways. We made connections to King Midas and the Golden Touch as well as to Milton S. Hershey. We sang chocolate songs, did math activities with M&Ms and Skittles, wrote journal responses about the book, and learned about greed and family values. Many classes did chocolate touch greetings during their morning meetings, and teachers wrote book-related morning messages on the lobby easel. Large Hershey kisses and chocolate silhouettes adorned our hallways. Guest readers visited various classrooms. Our culminating event was a “Chocolate Touch/Candy Land” themed field day, organized by PE teachers Jan Huot and Pam Lupo. All students participated, and the PTA treated everyone to Popsicles at the end of the day. It was a sweet experience!

Thanks to all the dedicated teachers at SHS who helped to build enthusiasm about reading with their children. We hope the children had fun with the book and will always have fond memories of The Chocolate Touch. I wonder what our Fifth Annual One School, One Read will be?

Sincerely,

Becky Virgalla

Co-chair

Sandy Hook School

12 Dickinson Drive, Sandy Hook                                 June 13, 2006