Excitement filled the classrooms of Ridgeway Elementary School on Tuesday morning as students participated in a schoolwide Book Blast, a book opening event where the entire school simultaneously unwrapped thousands of brand-new books during a shared countdown celebration just days before summer break.
The event marked the culmination of a schoolwide literacy initiative that will ensure every Ridgeway student heads into summer with books of their own. Following a countdown heard throughout the school, students opened their books at the exact same moment, creating a memorable celebration of reading and learning across every classroom.
The initiative began after classroom teacher Mrs. Kelliher noticed an increasing number of students expressing interest in reading but lacking consistent access to books at home. Determined to help students continue reading throughout the summer months, Mrs. Kelliher partnered with Books Are Fun and its Book Blast program to launch a literacy effort focused on placing books directly into students' hands.
What started with a goal of providing each student with at least one book quickly grew into something much larger. Through the generosity of staff, families, and community supporters, Ridgeway raised $8,320, which was matched dollar for dollar by the Imagine Nation Foundation. The combined effort resulted in more than $16,000 worth of books for students.
As a result, every Ridgeway student received at least two books to take home for summer reading, while students who participated in fundraising efforts earned additional books based on their contributions.
Mrs. Kelliher, affectionately known by students as "the book lady," reflected on the impact of the initiative. "This is about making sure every child has something to read that excites them and belongs to them," said Mrs. Kelliher. "When students feel connected to the books they are reading, they are more likely to continue reading over the summer and return ready to share those experiences."
“This initiative truly reflects what can happen when a school community comes together for its students,” said Sarah Thiffault, the Principal of Ridgeway Elementary School. “From staff and families to community partners, everyone played a role in making Book Blast possible so that every child will have books to take home before summer break. It is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together when our shared focus is supporting student reading and access to books.”
“The energy and enthusiasm surrounding this initiative have truly been a blast for the Ridgeway School community,” said the Superintendent of Schools, Diane Pedroza. “More importantly, it reflects our district’s ongoing commitment to strengthening literacy and ensuring students maintain reading momentum beyond the classroom.”
The district extends its appreciation to the staff, families, and community partners who helped make this initiative possible, as well as to Books Are Fun and the Imagine Nation Foundation for their partnership and support. Their collaboration helped ensure that every Ridgeway student heads into summer break with meaningful access to books and reading opportunities, and the district looks forward to exploring opportunities to expand similar literacy initiatives to additional schools in the coming school year.
