Elm Lawn Elementary School’s One School, One Book program is engaging kindergarteners through fourth graders.
“Every student was given a copy of the book ‘The World According to Humphrey’ by Betty Birney,” Principal Lisa Rust said. “Families have been encouraged to read it aloud together at home, and students have opportunities to engage with it during the school day.”
“We kicked off One School, One Book with an assembly introducing Humphrey with a skit by Mr. Cavill and Mr. Russell,” said Reading Specialist Tracie Rogers. “After the assembly, Humphrey has traveled to a new classroom every night. The students love interacting with Humphrey when he comes to visit. Students are enjoying reading at home with their parents and siblings.”
Fourth grader teacher Jodi Alt and Ms. Rogers have led program planning. They decided to participate after Ms. Alt read about the program and knew it would be a good family engagement activity as well as a way to build community at Elm Lawn.
“Students are loving the book from kindergarten to fourth grade,” Ms. Rogers said. “It is inspiring kids to read. We have some students reading it in Spanish, and they are very engaged in the excitement of reading a chapter every night.”
Students also enjoy the trivia questions about the book during morning announcements. Ms. Rogers explained why it’s important for students to be involved in a school-wide reading program with family engagement. 
“Family involvement reinforces the idea that reading is valuable and enjoyable, creating a culture of literacy both at home and in school,” Ms. Rogers said. “It helps parents stay engaged in their child's learning, providing opportunities for meaningful conversations and shared experiences.”