Staff
This year, Las Palmas Elementary School collected more than 12,000 books from the community for its spring book drive. The book drive allows kids to go home with free, new-to-them books to read over the summer. Books are donated by local families, and there is a small “competition” to it; the class that collects the most books wins a Kona Ice Party. Books are sorted into categories and then on “Distribution Day,” the kids come and take home as many books as they want.
There were so many books this year that a second distribution day was needed.
Any books that don’t get distributed are saved for next year, donated to the preschool (if age-appropriate) or given to other facilities in town, such as St. Clement’s Church or the Boys & Girls Club.
The entire event is run by parent volunteers. This year, one older sibling incorporated the book drive into his Eagle Scout project. While kids reportedly loved the event, teachers and parents also commented on how wonderful it was.
“My ‘kinders’ were beyond excited when they learned they got to keep the books. It was magical! Thank you,” said Las Palmas kindergarten teacher Margaret Rettle.
“My kids are thrilled with their choices,” said Las Palmas parent Rachel Strokosz.
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