A child’s ability to read has a direct effect on his or her future success.

“Reading with your child helps to increase their vocabulary and improves their reading fluency and comprehension,” says Cheryl Helms, principal of Tyrrell Elementary School at Columbia.

So, during Read Across America Week, March 2-6, she and the TES faculty encourage everyone to pick up a book and read to a child.

“Whether it’s a beloved classic or something new and exciting, we encourage you to spread the joy of reading,” Helms said.

Helms is also seeking volunteers to come to the school, located at 486 Elementary School Road, Columbia, to read to students.

You can read any day or days March 2-6 at any time during the school day to celebrate Read Across America Week.

Please call 252-796-3881 to schedule a day and time that is most convenient for you.

Remember, a child’s ability to read has a direct effect on their future success, and your voluntary reading to a TES student Mar. 2-6 could ignite in him or her a lifelong desire to read.