La Pine Elementary celebrates Dr. Seuss

La Pine Elementary School celebrated reading at the 18th annual Cat in the Hat Night. The night is part of the national Read Across America program and is filled with Dr. Seuss-centered activities.

The event drew in more than 300 students and family members from La Pine and Rosland elementary schools. Families came out to celebrate the love of reading while honoring one of the most prolific children’s book authors and illustrators of all time.

Staff decorated the school and made children’s books come to life through themed games and activities.

“The booths are all literacy themed Dr. Seuss booths, and we invite the parents. It’s a huge community event,” said reading teacher Evelyn Kennedy.

Parents and kids relived some of their favorite Seuss stories by eating green eggs and ham and fishing in McElligot’s pool.

“‘Hop on Pop’ is where you can jump on all the bubble wrap. It’s really fun,” explained one fourth-grade student.

Both parents and students said they look forward to the event every year.

“I think it’s great. It gets the kids excited about school. It gets their families excited about school, and gets them to interact with teachers and staff in a fun way,” said Principal Patrick Flanagan.

Students around the country will continue to celebrate Dr. Seuss as they count down to his birthday on March 2. The day also marks National Read Across America Day, where students in all 50 states will celebrate reading through the adventures of Dr. Seuss.