McVey kicks off Parents as Reading Partners

Hundreds of McVey Elementary students and their parents participated in Family Literacy and Fun Night at Barnes & Noble in Carle Place on March 5. The McVey PTA hosted this fourth annual fundraiser to help the school kick off Parents as Reading Partners, which aims to get kids excited about reading and enjoy a trip to the bookstore.

Numerous events took place throughout the evening including storybook readings by Librarian Ellen O’Neil, Reading Specialist Nadine Lombardo, Assistant Principal Harriet Alfano and Principal Kerry Dunne. The children also enjoyed meeting famed literary character Cat in the Hat and watching a children-approved magical performance by Annabel the clown.

Some students also participated in the events, sharing their musical talents with a standing-room-only audience. Led by Orchestra Director Kristen Finello and Band Director Jessica Bassel, the students performed pieces from their upcoming spring concert.

The McVey PTA and staff all encouraged parents to purchase books, reminding them that a portion of the sales benefit the students. “Shop, shop until you drop. It all goes back to your children,” said PTA participant Danielle Sjoholm.

Highlighting early copies of the summer reading lists, students picked from popular titles that included “Wimpy Kid” and Judy Blume books.