First-graders Jake Ryan and John Whitney enjoy their prizes. Photo courtesy of Christine Santerre

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – McKinley Elementary School recently held a readathon for Read Across America Day, also known as Dr. Seuss Day.

During March, McKinley Elementary School held a readathon. The children read books and participated in school activities. Kindergarteners read for a total of 60 minutes and first-graders read for a total of 100 minutes.

As part of the readathon, the children gathered sponsors to raise funds for field trips and activities.

CalFire Gridley Station 74 firemen share a story with McKinley Elementary School students. Photo courtesy of Christine Santerre

The highest fundraisers for each grade received a prize. The winners for kindergarten were Grant Evans and Lily Arriola. The winners for first- grade were Jake Evans and John Whitney.

Read Across America Day/Dr. Seuss Day is an annual event that promotes the joy of reading. Celebrated in honor of the birthday of Theodor Seuss Geisel, famously known as Dr. Seuss, the day (and week) is filled with reading events, character dress-ups and a shared appreciation for the iconic stories that have captivated generations of young readers.