PETERBOROUGH 一 Superintendent Kimberly Rizzo Saunders and Principal Larry Pimental are pleased to share that Peterborough Elementary School has been taking part in a literacy program, One School, One Book, over the course of May.
One School, One Book is a community-wide shared reading event. The program was designed to build a love of reading and teach effective literacy skills, all while participating in a fun family activity.
Every Peterborough Elementary student received a copy of the same book, “Fenway and Hattie” by Victoria Coe, in a special school-wide assembly introducing the program and the book. Funds from the school’s Title One grant paid for books for each student.
“Fenway and Hattie” follows a little dog with a giant personality. Fenway is an excitable and endlessly energetic Jack Russell Terrier who lives in the city with Food Lady, Fetch Man, and – of course – his beloved ‘short human’ and best friend, Hattie. Told from a dog’s perspective, the book tells a heartwarming and enthusiastic tale of two best friends.
Families were asked to read the book aloud together throughout May, following a reading schedule that was given to students at the assembly. Audio recordings of each chapter were also made available.
In school, students were invited to answer daily trivia questions to encourage and reward attentive listening. Nightly discussion questions were posted on the school’s Facebook page. In class, students explored the book through activities and discussion.
To celebrate the completion of the book, PES hosted a Literacy Night on Wednesday, May 31, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. During the event, families observed student work, learned about K-4 reading, and got the chance to meet therapy dogs from Cold Springs Healing Paws, the organization where PES’ facility dog, Charlie, is being trained.
“One School, One Book is a program that demonstrates the impact of community participation. It fostered a love of reading, not just for the students, but for parents, teachers, and administrative staff as well,” said Superintendent Saunders. “We are thrilled to see the program become such a success.”
