COLUMBIA — Students at Grant Elementary School held their annual Read-a-Thon on Thursday, celebrating the end of a two-week fundraiser that raised money for their PTA.
Evelyn Tanner, chairman of the Read-a-Thon committee, said the school raised $9,007 total, the most they’ve ever raised. Students raised money by asking for donations from family and friends.
First grade teacher Susan Maglich said parents always help out and contribute.
“The money raised stays with the school and supports the children,” Maglich said.
Tanner said the PTA uses the money for special projects and a field day at the end of the year.
Read-a-Thon is an all-day event where students are able to enjoy reading in their classrooms and listening to special guest readers. Maglich allowed her students to bring stuffed animals today, while other teachers allowed students to bring pillows and blankets.
“A variety of different people come and read to the students,” Tanner said.
Guests who read to the students included Elliot Battle, whose children were among the first black students to integrate Grant in the 1950s.
Two guests in costume visited teacher Lurie Krumm’s class.
“One was a ladybug and one was Amelia Bedelia,” said first-grader Alexandra Estes.
With a large smile on his face, another student of Krumm’s, Andrew Morris said, “I read to my pets.” The students also listened to pianist Gabriela Montero.
Maglich said the students enjoyed listening to stories shared by people other than the teacher and librarian.
“The Read-a-Thon is a fun and exciting way to share reading,” she said.