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This spring, BECAA launched “Read a Book a Week,” a Friday reading program bringing our members and community supporters directly into the Resource Center in Bong Mines. Each Friday, a volunteer sits with our students and reads. No complicated curriculum. Just books, questions, and conversation.
The program runs in partnership with Immaculata University, and in just a few weeks, it has already created moments none of us expected. Here is what three of our readers had to say.
Honestly, I almost talked myself out of it. I thought the book might be too elementary for the age group. But during my practice read, the message clicked. I was glad I picked it.
I have visited the Resource Center. I have made annual pledges. But reading to those kids was the most fulfilling thing I have done for them. The questions they asked, the smiles on their faces. It filled my heart.
The first session was a success. Mr. Richardson read to the students, and watching the children engage with the story was something else entirely. He summarized the book, and the kids had the chance to ask questions and try to answer them.
Ms. Carol, Mr. Gray, Ms. Nicole Zehner from Immaculata University, and Principal Ms. Beatrice were all in attendance. The room was full of energy and warmth. The students even read back to us, showing what Ms. Carol and Mr. Gray have been teaching them.
The kids asked for more books. They asked for a projector and projector board for the library. We are listening.
I read My Brain Is a Home to the students. The book walks through how the brain works. We covered the prefrontal cortex, the amygdala, the hippocampus and how these parts work together to help you make good decisions and build a healthy mental environment.
I read it to my son first, and what struck me was how useful it is for adults, not just kids. I brought it to Bong Mines for the same reason. The books we choose can do more than teach reading. They can give kids tools they will carry for life.
I have supported these students through board work for several years, but board work keeps you at a distance. Sitting in that room with them was different. These are kids I have been rooting for from afar. Getting to be present with them, and seeing them engage, was worth more than I expected.
Every Friday, a BECAA member or community supporter shows up and reads. That is the whole program. If you would like to be one of them, reach out to us at becaa.lib@gmail.com. Books that open minds are always welcome. So are the people willing to read them.