Aldine ISD Celebrates Drop Everything And Read (DEAR) Day on April 12

Disponible en: Español

Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney invites everyone to take part in the joy of reading.

Dear Aldine Community,

On Monday, April 12, we will be celebrating DEAR Day. For those unfamiliar with this spectacular holiday, DEAR stands for “Drop Everything and Read.” The national celebration of reading is designed to remind people of all ages to make reading a priority activity in their lives. DEAR programs have been held nationwide on April 12 in honor of Beverly Cleary’s birthday, since she first wrote about DEAR in Ramona Quimby, Age 8.

The award-winning writer wrote her first book in 1950. The former librarian worked in a book store and wished there were more books for children to enjoy reading. And did she ever! She wrote more than 40 books before passing away on March 25, 2021.

The times and the world are very different since Cleary was a child. Yet, she always said that kids — their inner feelings — pretty much stay the same. I know I read more than one of her books. Who can forget the characters Cleary brought to life, like Ramona and older sister Beezus? She made kids feel that it was OK to be different, be anything, and maybe break a rule or two.

Becoming a strong reader is essential to being a lifelong learner. On DEAR Day, we will all take part by dedicating 10 minutes, putting aside all distractions, and enjoy books together. Get together with other readers, find someone to read to, or even just read alone.

There are two options for DEAR time: 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Principals will select the time that works best for their campus, and I am asking everyone in Aldine ISD to pick one of the times and drop everything and read.

Of course, we are using the hashtag #DEARdayAldine to document our district’s observation of this important day. I can’t wait to see everyone taking part!

With Aldine Pride,