Governor Greg Gianforte visited Four Georgians Elementary School in Helena to celebrate Read Across America Week, according to a March 10 announcement. During his visit, Gianforte read “Fox in Socks” by Dr. Seuss to students and spoke about the importance of literacy and fostering a lifelong love of reading.
Gianforte said, “Reading opens the door to opportunity and imagination. Events like Read Across America Week help inspire young Montanans to develop a love of books and learning that will serve them for the rest of their lives.”
Read Across America Week is observed annually in early March and is sponsored by the National Education Association. The event coincides with the birthday of children’s author Dr. Seuss and brings together more than 45 million readers each year across the country.
During his visit, Gianforte also promoted Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, an initiative led in Montana by first lady Susan Gianforte. In June 2023, Susan Gianforte launched the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library of Montana in partnership with Dolly Parton’s program. Before this expansion, only some counties participated and about 8,500 children were enrolled; now there are 58 local partners serving nearly 29,500 eligible children across all 56 counties. Since expanding statewide, over 783,000 books have been mailed to Montana families.
Students and teachers at Four Georgians Elementary marked Read Across America Week with activities focused on reading and literacy. They joined millions nationwide who participate each year to promote reading and highlight its importance for students of all ages.