USAO Early Child Education Students Celebrate Read Across America
Students from the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma’s Early Childhood and Elementary Education programs recently partnered with local youth to celebrate the joys of literacy during Read Across America week.
Led by Dr. Sarah Layman, Dean of the School of Education and Speech-Language Pathology, Director of Teacher Education, and Professor of Education, the USAO students visited the Bill Wallace Early Childhood Center in Chickasha last week to read to Pre-K and kindergarten classes. The annual event aims to foster a love for reading in young children while providing future educators with hands-on experience in the classroom.
"Read Across America is a vital opportunity for our students to engage directly with the community," said Dr. Layman. "By sharing stories with these young learners, our education majors are not just practicing their teaching skills - they are helping to build the foundation for a lifetime of literacy."
Launched by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998, Read Across America is the nation’s largest celebration of reading. While the program originally began in conjunction with the birthday of Dr. Seuss, it has grown into a year-round initiative focused on sharing diverse stories that allow every child to see themselves reflected in the pages of a book.
The collaboration between USAO and Chickasha Public Schools highlights the university’s commitment to community service and professional development for its teacher candidates. By stepping out of the university lecture hall and into the local elementary classrooms, USAO students gain valuable insights into early childhood development and classroom management.
About USAO:
The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is Oklahoma’s only public liberal arts college. Located in Chickasha, USAO is a distinctive institution offering a challenging interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. With a focus on broad-based education and civic responsibility, USAO prepares students to become well-rounded, adaptable leaders ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.
Contact: Hannah Thompson | 405-574-1362