On March 2, 2008, students at Westwood participated in the Read Across America program that is celebrated nationwide by the National Education Association (NEA).

This day is a means by which educators can encourage and inspire students to become lifelong readers. The date was originally chosen by the NEA on the birthday of famed children's author, Dr. Seuss.

This year Westwood Elementary encouraged families to be a part of the celebration by reading at home every evening for at least 15 minutes the two weeks prior to March 2.

Families were given a log in which to record their reading. Students were then "responsible" (one of the traits on the character pillar) to return the signed reading log for a special drawing of prizes that were awarded to the diligent readers on Read Across America Day.

Winners in the drawing included Bishop Hilton from the Early Childhood Program, Emily Yee from kindergarten, Ally Decker from first grade, Alexandria Carbone-Larson from second grade, and Liam Kehres from third grade.

Each class attended an exciting reading assembly in which the prizes were awarded, and then students were treated to hearing some Dr. Seuss stories read by Westwood teachers. During lunch the students listened to books being read on video, and then finally we enjoyed a special DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) time.

Some students were even treated to hearing a story read by FISD Superintendent Trish Hanks.