Students at Peaslee Elementary School will all read the same book, one chapter a day.

Although the concept of One School, One Read is not new (Algonquin High School has done this for several years), this is the first time Peaslee has implemented the program and the first elementary school in Northborough to do so.

The book, The Mouse and the Motorcycle, written by Beverly Cleary will be read to students in class and activities will revolve around the book for three weeks.

Reading Specialist Jennifer Shields spearheaded this program for Peaslee. The literacy committee, which had teacher representatives from every grade, was responsible for the planning of the program and every teacher member had a role. 

Librarian and Head Teacher Nancy Kellner  is very enthusiastic about the program. “We are very excited about the program as it will allow us to celebrate literacy as a Peaslee family,” said Kellner. “It goes beyond our annual Read Across America Day, it incorporates World Read Aloud Day, it aligns with the Common Core, it builds community and it will be just plain fun!”

“We have selected a title that can be followed, understood and enjoyed by younger students,” said Shields, “but that will still captivate and stimulate older children.”

The kick off for the school was held on Monday, March 4 with an all school meeting starting with an introduction of the program to the students, followed by a skit starring staff members acting out a scene of the book, a short clip from the original movie and the distribution of the book to each classroom teacher.

Throughout the three weeks, students will be able to participate in trivia, discussion questions and learn a new vocabulary word each morning during the announcements. Both the upper and lower wings have activities planned that are grade appropriate and each wing will display work on a themed bulletin board. 

Kellner encourages students to talk about the book with others—friends and family.  She refers to the program as “One School, One Family, One Read.”

“When a whole school reads a book,” said Shields, “there’s a lot to talk about. We are hoping it creates a sense of unity and excitement around one story.”

The program will end on March 22 when everyone will see the classic movie on screen.

"The great kick-off was the result of a team effort," said Shields. "I'm also confident to say this will be an annual Peaslee event."