(February 5, 2025) Several well-known leaders, officials, and community members read to students at several RCSD schools on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, to celebrate World Read Aloud Day. Observed in more than 100 countries, this global event promotes literacy and reinforces the belief that everyone has the fundamental right to learn to read.
“It is really important to build a love for reading at a young age, especially in elementary school,” said Demetria Lawton-Greggs, Principal of The Flower City School No. 54. “Any opportunity we have to encourage a passion for literacy and get our students excited about books is something we want to embrace.”
The RCSD extends its gratitude to the many celebrities and guest readers at John James Audubon School No. 33, School No. 54, and World of Inquiry School No. 58. Some of those readers included Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. Demario Strickland, Rochester Mayor Malik Evans, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, News 8 Meteorologist James Gilbert, News 10NBC Meteorologist Stacey Pensgen, 13-WHAM Meteorologists Scott Hetsko and Mark McLean, members of the Rochester Police Department, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, and more.
The District’s Communications team streamed the event live from School No. 33, allowing viewers worldwide to experience the celebration. At School No. 54, students explored stories from different cultures and languages using digital resources, broadening their understanding of global storytelling. Additionally, celebrity readers joined students virtually from across the country – and even the U.S. Virgin Islands – bringing a dynamic and diverse element to this special day. The event at School No. 33 was also recorded and is offered on demand on the District’s YouTube page.
