Our Lower School readers were all abuzz this week with the return of the Scholastic Book Fair. Students enjoyed browsing the rolling racks and searching for new must-reads.
Lower School Librarian Thomas Buffington loves the excitement that the Book Fair brings each year. He encourages students to create wish lists of books they would like to read and note their prices so they can work with their parents on their book budgets at home.
« The book fair is definitely a high point for our students, » said Buffington. « Though titles are updated each year, you’d be surprised how little has changed over the years—and for good reason. Kids just simply love a book fair. » He reports that popular books this year are anything sports related (« These flew off the shelves quickly, » he said), as well as fantasy books, specifically ‘dragon’ stories and series have been popular. « The excitement kids show for books during this time is so important for reading motivation! » Buffington said. « It’s nice to see kids just as excited to find books as they are to find the posters, school supplies, etc. I believe the fair is very important in solidifying our students’ love of reading and reading for enjoyment. »
Buffington noted that one of his old favorites is on the shelves this year. He enjoyed reading Holes by Louis Sachar when he was a young middle school student. « It’s cool to see the timeless classics read by today’s generation of students, » he said.
Beasley teachers jumped into the fun of Book Fair week, too! They, alongside their students, enjoyed a series of book-themed spirit days:
Monday: Favorite Book Character Day
Tuesday: « Cozy Up and Read! » PJs Day
Wednesday: « Wild Wednesday » Wacky Outfits Day
Thursday: « Hats Off to Reading » Hat Day
Friday: MICDS School Spirit Day
Book Fair proceeds go to Beasley classrooms and the Lower School Library. Depending on the amount of books sold, MICDS receives 25-50% of the total sales in Scholastic dollars. Proceeds in the past have provided classroom supplies, books, class sets for reading circles, etc. to classrooms and also new books, shelves, and supplies for the Library. « With future proceeds, (this year and next) the new renovation is largely considered, » said Buffington. « I’m hoping to send our teachers on a shopping spree after returning to their classrooms to provide some finishing touches for the new renovations. And of course, these proceeds will be essential to provide books and furnishings to our new Library! »
« We are really fortunate here at MICDS, » Buffington continued. « Even though the fair is a mere three days each year, family response and support is incredible. Every year has provided significant funds which are shared among Beasley learning spaces. The return of the book fair has once again been successful, pointing towards the strength and support of our MICDS community. »
Thank you to our generous parents, and happy reading to all!