Read Across America in Healdsburg schools

 Since 1997, the National Education Association has promoted a special day in America now commonly known as .

The idea has really gained traction and it is taking root in many small towns like Healdsburg. Throughout the day at several Healdsburg school sites Wednesday, groups of volunteers gathered to sit and read to the students.

 “When I heard about this I went right out and bought a new book to give to the students right after I finish reading it to them,” Will Seppi, owner of in Healdsburg, said.

The idea has gained such strength that it is now recognized every year on March 2, which coincides with the birthday of Dr Seuss (Geisel), an American writer best known for writing children’s books.

Some of his books include Green Eggs and Ham, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, and The Cat in the Hat.

The NEA represents about 3.2 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers. 

At , Chris Love coordinated the group of 20 volunteers there.

“This is the second year that I have had the opportunity to do this," Love said. "It is so important that the students see the adults here to read to them.”

Other visits were at, where and read to classes.

In Washington, D.C., today,  First Lady Michelle Obama and NEA President Dennis Van Roekel welcomed 400 school children to the Library of Congress. Guests included Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, actress Jessica Alba, Superbowl champion Donald Driver, Top Chef host Padma Lakshmi and chefs Carla Hall and Mike Isabella, designer Camila Alves and actors Bridget Moynahan, Jeffrey Ray Valdez and Mehcad Brooks -- along with journalists Norah O'Donnell and Luke Russert.

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