Officers from the Folsom Police Department stepped out of their patrol cars and into the classroom this week, swapping radios for storybooks as they joined students in celebrating Read Across America Week.
The department visited Alder Creek Elementary, Russell Ranch Elementary, and Empire Oaks Elementary, where officers took turns reading to students as part of the nationwide literacy initiative. The visits gave children the chance to hear engaging stories while interacting with local law enforcement in a positive and approachable setting.
“Thanks for having us as celebrity readers! We had a blast,” the department shared on social media, as they enjoyed the community engagement beyond their day-to-day duties.
Read Across America, launched by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998, is an annual event designed to promote a love of reading among children and young adults. It takes place every year on March 2, in honor of Dr. Seuss’s birthday, though celebrations often extend throughout the week.
Initially, the event was closely tied to Dr. Seuss’s books, with schools organizing themed reading activities based on classics like The Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham. In recent years, the NEA has expanded its focus to include a diverse range of books and authors, ensuring students have access to stories that reflect various cultures and backgrounds.
Throughout Read Across America Week, schools across the country host guest readers, book fairs, and themed activities to encourage literacy. In Folsom, the participation of law enforcement officers added an extra layer of excitement for students, reinforcing the importance of reading while fostering positive connections between young learners and their local police force.
