Thank You Bradley Elementary School

Last week had a lot of activity.  Our campaign raised money, I was able to work to help a number of taxpayers, and we began to more widely publicize the need for a Northeast full-service government office to better serve our citizens.

However, the best part of my week happened last Monday – and it helped me remember that my job is more than just a job.

On Monday, I was asked to read at Bradley Elementary School for the “Read Across America” program where I had read books for classes several times before.  The last time I’d read there was last year for City Councilwoman Tameika Devine’s “Together We Can Read” initiative where community leaders read to, and give a book to every third grader in Richland School District One. 

The staff at Bradley Elementary, led by their principal, Mrs. Maczyk, was one of only a handful of schools across the nation who’d won the recognition to host a “Read Across America” event this March, and I was asked to read to a class of fourth graders.  As I finished reading, and the children began asking questions, I said: “Wait, I’ve met some of you before, haven’t I?”

All of the kids said that yes, I’d read them the book “Dave the Potter” when they were in the third grade last year.  Then, almost every single one of the children said that they still had the book.  Several of them said they still read the book because it was one of the few books they owned that weren’t text books – and one little girl said that she read it to her baby sister almost every night to help her go to sleep!

For me, that day a year ago was a wonderful event where I could share my love of reading with children.  But, for those fourth graders – our community’s children – it was a moment that became a part of their daily lives since.

How neat is that? 

Monday was another reminder that this job you have given me is a chance to really help people.  And, I thank you so much for that moment with those children – that day will be a moment of joy that I always remember.