A successful collaborative reading initiative between Tioga ISD and the West Grayson Retired School Personnel Association (WGRSPA) occurred on Wednesday, June 4. The event centered around the distribution of the book, “Pets Rule!” by Susan Tan, to all 40 third-grade students.
The event, emceed by Garra Ballinger, involved a delightful partnership between Tioga High School seniors and the third graders. Seniors participated actively by reading aloud from the book with their younger partners, fostering a positive and engaging reading experience. The event was made even more special by the inclusion of bookmarks featuring the Tioga ISD mascot slogan, “It’s a great day to be a bulldog.”
Beyond the book distribution, the event highlighted the achievements of the third graders, teachers and staff, with praise from Superintendent Josh Ballinger. The students also proudly presented green lollipops they had created themselves as part of a classroom project on factories and assembly lines. Librarian Amber Hammer was instrumental in assisting Garra Ballinger in the selection of “Pets Rule!” for this year’s program.
WGRSPA members played a key role, providing insights into the organization’s history and mission, emphasizing the importance of reading and encouraging future participation by the third graders as they progress through their school years. WGRSPA members Mary Nan Story, Glenda Coulson and current President Sue Barker, alongside Carol Golden (Book Project Committee member), also shared information about upcoming events, scholarships and membership opportunities.
The positive impact of the project was evident in the enthusiastic response from both the students and the participating seniors. Teachers Loree Eddleman and Kim Clark expressed the students’ consistent excitement and anticipation for this annual event. A particularly heartwarming moment occurred when senior Caiden Borden spontaneously expressed his sincere gratitude for the WGRSPA’s initiative.
This collaborative project exemplifies the shared commitment of Tioga ISD and WGRSPA to fostering a love of reading and celebrating the accomplishments of students and educators.
