Seven students participating in the Pick a Reading Partner (PARP) program were awarded special quilts made by members of our community. The program, which encourages students to read daily at home with an adult partner of their choosing, took on a cozy feel as local volunteers crafted and awarded participating readers with warm, handmade quilts.
In total, 107 elementary students participated in the program. Students like third grader Camille Paratore spent the three-week long challenge building strong literacy habits, which paid off when she won one of the quilts.
“When my name was called, I was so excited to win,” said Paratore. “I love my quilt because it is the perfect size and texture.”
The winners were officially announced to a cheering crowd during the Bulldog Show on April 17. Each participant had their name entered into a drawing to win a quilt and one quilt winner was chosen at each grade level.
The prizes were the result of hours of careful work by community members Joan Cantwell, Denise Sweezy, Jill Norray and Jill Dergosits, who stitched together unique designs for the winners.
For fourth grader Brayden Quick, the handmade quilts matched his own passions.
“I love my quilt,” said Quick. “It has dinosaurs on it and I am really interested in fossils and history.”
While the program suggests an adult partner, Quick found success with a different companion—his dog.
“We are incredibly proud of the dedication these students have shown toward their reading goals,” said Superintendent of Schools Bonnie Kane. “Seeing our community come together to support literacy in such a creative way is incredibly inspiring.”
The PARP program continues to serve as a bridge between BKW students and the wider community, reinforcing literacy habits through local support and volunteerism.