As they were welcomed to Mrs Pino's third grade class the room was hushed with anticipation, oohs and ahhs were heard as Chief Jeff Millar opened the hardbound dictionaries to show the many full color pictures. Each child happily received their own dictionary and chatted among themselves as to what use they would put their new dictionary to and challenged each other with words to look up.
The next class visited was Mrs. Young's third grade classroom. These children were not expecting visitors and were surprised and excited at the news. They bubbled with ideas on how they would use their own dictionary. When Jesse Powers saw the color photos he excitedly announced "when I research dinosuars I can learn more now!" With that said, Chief Millar turned to the page that listed dinosaurs...a full page of pictures greeted a thrilled beyond words Jesse.
The Rotary hopes to promote literacy, encourage reading and create good study skills through this program. Not limited to literacy advocacy, the Rotary is also active in health initiatives, community outreach and coats for children.
The dictionary program for 3rd graders has been in effect for more years than representative Donna Stevenson (of Stevenson Wealth Management) can remember. Donna has been a Rotarian for 12 years and has participated in this program for all 12 years. Donna also touched on the Rotary coats for kids program and the hopes for possible implimentation of that program in Copper.
Russ Thomas, from West Calaveras Rotary, was there to assist with the distribution of dictionaries and explained to the children the importance of community, and that its never too early to become involved in their community.
Chief Millar, quick to adjust to the kids excitement level, showed the various pages that would spark the children's interest and have them looking for more. He told the children how to care for their new dictionary and how he hoped they would enjoy them while learning.
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