Schools across the district celebrated Georgia Reads Day with special author visits and other 
events designed to promote and celebrate literacy.
Gov. Brian Kemp proclaimed the special day on Sept. 22 to highlight the importance of reading for Georgians of all ages.
South Douglas Elementary School kicked off the morning with Drop Everything and Read as students snuggled up with their favorite stuffed animals and filled classrooms with cozy corners of reading and quiet joy, Media Specialist Ana Leibbrand said.
The excitement grew as the school welcomed three Georgia authors into the school community.
Leslie Bragdon inspired South Douglas' youngest readers with tales of courage, Sara Fowler sparked curiosity and wonder in second- and third-graders, and Shanda McCloskey shared her creative world of invention and play.
"Students had the chance to meet real authors, ask questions and see firsthand how stories are brought to life," Leibbrand said.
To close out the celebration, South Douglas joined the statewide Georgia Reads Rally with Malcolm Mitchell, a beloved author and former NFL player who reminded students that reading can open doors to endless opportunities. His words encouraged students to dream big, keep reading and believe in themselves, Leibbrand said.
"It was a day filled with books, inspiration and the joy of connecting with authors who love sharing
stories just as much as we love reading them," Leibbrand said. "Georgia Reads Day reminded us all that when we open a book, we open the door to adventure."
Chapel Hill Elementary hosted a series of events to reinforce the media program's message that "readers are leaders and leaders are readers."
The school invited special guest readers, who are leaders within the building, to read to students at each grade level.
Principal Bianca Turner, Assistant Principal Amber Herring, School Resource Officer Aretha Griffie and Cafeteria Manager Octavia Clonts were among the readers.
"We are thrilled to participate in Georgia Reads Day," Turner said. "This is a wonderful opportunity to reinforce our commitment to literacy and show our students that reading is a cornerstone of lifelong learning and success."
Media Specialist Cameron Sheldon added, "Our goal is to make reading a visible and celebrated activity. By having our school's leaders read to our students, we are showing them that reading is something that we all do, and it is a powerful tool that opens up a world of possibilities."
At Mirror Lake Elementary, guest readers included Principal Lisa Huey, Counselor Sheila Compitello and authors Shanda McCloskey and Sara Fowler.
Students also took time to independently read and log minutes into Beanstack.