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Los Angeles Unified Board of Education Approves Resolution to Commemorate September 6, 2023, as National Read a Book Day
LOS ANGELES, CA (August 22, 2023) — The Los Angeles Unified Board of Education approved today a resolution sponsored by Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson, co-sponsored by Board Member Dr. Rocío Rivas and unanimously approved by all the Board Members, commemorating September 6, 2023 as National Read a Book Day.
The resolution allows for District staff to recognize the importance of reading and encourages all students, staff, administrators and parents to join in the celebration at schools and at home.
“As a life-long educator, I know that the availability of books and library programs positively influence the development of students’ reading interests,” Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson said. “This is why it is important that every elementary school has a fully functioning library. We in Los Angeles Unified commit to improving literacy and biliteracy outcomes by making age appropriate books accessible to all children and encouraging families to read books and celebrate the joy of reading every day of the year.”
“The stories of triumph, intrigue, imagination, sadness, defeat, hope and resiliency within the pages of books help elevate our mind to hear the words from experiences, backgrounds and people we will never meet and could never fathom,” Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “Words can change our lives. Books change worlds. It is now more important than ever to be voracious readers and help expand our minds with the possibilities of other people's stories.”
“Literacy is a foundational skill that all of our students need to navigate their academic career and personal lives,” Board Member Dr. Rocío Rivas said. “Celebrating literacy also uplifts the voices of writers at a time when book banning threatens shared ideas and cultural dialog."“Los Angeles Unified happily looks forward to commemorating National Read a Book Day,” Board President Jackie Goldberg said. “In addition to all the developmental benefits for students, reading is one of the best bonding experiences parents can have with their children. And it's a good reminder for adults as well!”
“I am proud to support National Read a Book Day,” Board Member Dr. George J. McKenna III said. “Developing the practice of reading is vital to strengthening writing skills and augmenting the mastery of mathematics. We encourage our students to read all kinds of things to nurture their love of reading, books, magazines, newspapers and other periodicals. Reading is a practice that will remain with you for a lifetime.”
“At LAUSD, we strive for our students to not just become lifelong learners, but also lifelong readers,” Board Member Nick Melvoin said. “I’m glad to recognize Read a Book Day and encourage students and families to put away the screens and dive into a good book–and hopefully foster a great new habit.”
“Books unlock the power of imagination and bring students a world of possibilities,” Board Member Kelly Gonez said. “We’re excited to support Read a Book day in Los Angeles Unified and encourage students of all ages to find a great book!”
“Every book has the power to unlock a world of endless possibilities,” Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin said. “In an era where the banning of books is an unfortunately real threat again, we as a District must illuminate the joy and opportunity of reading with our students and families. Let’s all read a book today, tomorrow and every day!”
“Los Angeles Unified is strongly committed to ensuring that every student in our District possesses the skills and resources necessary for success,” Student Board Member Karen Ramirez said. “The commemoration of National Read a Book Day will elevate the importance of strong literacy skills and encourage students to read both in the classroom and beyond.”