More than 25 sixth- and seventh-grade
Jean Ribault Middle School students and several Jacksonville Sherriff Officers recently participated in the 21st Annual African American Read-In, sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English.
Sergeant Ellis Burns, and officers Reginald Williams, Quinton Douglas, Alvin Brooks and Kim Lockey from the Jacksonville Sherriff’s Office served as guest readers for the event, which was aimed to deepen the students’ understanding of non-fiction text and to show them how reading has a direct correlation to being successful.
“It is my hope that the students see how reading and comprehension affects every area of life,” said Gladys Jackson, the school’s reading coach. “I chose officers from the Sherriff’s Office as celebrity readers so the students could see them in a different light – a positive light.”
The school’s media center was divided into sections which included plush recliners, donated by Rent-a-Center, surrounded by a circle of chairs for the students to interact with the readers.
The officers read from the Hip-Hop series published by Mason and Crest. The series included books on rhythm and blues singers Usher and Mary J. Blige, rapper L.L. Cool J and the multi-talented rapper, actor, designer and entrepreneur Sean “Puffy” Combs.
Officer Williams, who read a book on Sean Combs, shared with his group that he struggled with reading in elementary school but through hard work and determination he overcame his fears and became an avid reader in sixth grade.
“Reading and understanding the law and state statues are a huge part of my job as an officer,” said Williams. “It’s not just important to know how to read, you must be able to comprehend what you’ve read.”
After the students enjoyed their intimate reading sessions, they received refreshments provided by Winn Dixie Supermarket and Starbucks, two of the school’s local business partners.
Annually, more than a million readers of all ethnic groups from 49 states, the West Indies, and African countries participate in the African-American Read-In. The purpose of the read-in events are to make the celebration of African American literacy a traditional part of Black History Month activities. To learn more about the read-ins visit www.ncte.org/action/aari.
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