North Hornell Elementary School recently hosted its annual “Drop Everything and Read” (DEAR) week, a celebration that brought together students, teachers, and members of the Hornell community in an exciting week-long event designed to promote reading and highlight the importance of various roles within the community. Throughout the week, local professionals and community leaders took time out of their busy schedules to visit classrooms and read to the students, giving them a firsthand look at the diverse jobs that help make Hornell a thriving and special place to live.
Students were treated to special readings from a variety of guest readers, ranging from local business owners and healthcare professionals to city officials and first responders. Each guest not only shared a love of reading with the students but also discussed their important roles in the community, showing students how different careers contribute to the well-being and success of their hometown. By learning about the many roles that adults can have, students were inspired to think about their own futures and the wide range of possibilities available to them.
“We are so grateful for the time and effort our community members put into making this week so special for our students,” said Principal Kate Wall. “Our goal is to not only foster a love of reading, but also help students understand how each person plays a role in making our community work. Whether it’s helping with health and safety, running a business, or serving in local government, everyone’s contributions are important.”
The following community members graciously volunteered their time to participate in DEAR week:
Hornell Police Department Police Chief: Ted Murray
Hornell Mayor: John Buckley
Superintendent of Hornell City School District: Jeremy Palotti
Hornell High School Principal: Morgan Allsion
Hornell Intermediate School Principal: Julie Smith
North Hornell Principal: Kate Wall
Hornell City School District Transportation: Cathy Thompson
St. James Hospital Administrative Assistant: Carmen WIlkins
Firefighter and EMT: Justin Haynes
North Hornell School Psychologist and CSE/CPSE Chairperson: Laura McGraw
Registered Nurse: Grace Smith
Local Hairdresser: Allison Watt
A special shout-out goes to our amazing community members who are coming in the next few weeks after having to reschedule due to a snow day: Tiffany Henderson from the Hornell Humane Society, Nicole Meehan from Elderwood Admissions, Chief Frank Brzozowski from the City of Hornell Fire Department, and retired HCSD Principal Sean Gaffney. We’re so grateful for their dedication and willingness to share their time with our students!
Students were thrilled to hear from these respected professionals, and many expressed interest in pursuing similar careers in the future. Each guest also took the time to answer students’ questions, sharing insights into their careers and how they help make Hornell a wonderful community.
The culmination of the week was Hibernation Day, when students snuggled into their own cozy “dens” with flashlights and a good book to read. It was the perfect way to wrap up a week dedicated to fostering a love of reading and honoring the important roles community members play in the lives of the students.
DEAR Week was a huge success, impactful both educationally and in the connections it built between students and community members. By sharing stories and highlighting the importance of each role, the event reinforced the idea that reading can open doors to a future full of possibilities.
Thank you to all the guest readers who helped make the week such a meaningful experience. At North Hornell, we love to read, and we are incredibly grateful for the impact each and every community member has on our students and our town.