You may have noticed through our Shepherd ISD Social Media Posts, and Messaging updates that the Scholastic Book Fair is in town. Not to mention, the signs posted on school grounds signal to passers-by that the Book Fair is here.
I can remember seeing the bookshelves set up in our school library and the excitement of the class trip to the library to peruse the book listings. I would bring my newspaper-like form home for my mom to look over the checkboxes I had already made and ask for the money to purchase said items.
Of course, I had a few posters and pencils make the list, but they were quickly erased, as my mom stated, “I’m happy to buy the books, but you will have to wait for Christmas for the other stuff.” Oh, the days of the book fair — it truly is a kid’s dream.
For years, the Scholastic Book Fair has been a cherished tradition in schools nationwide, bringing a sense of excitement and anticipation to students, parents, and teachers alike. In our small town, where close-knit values are at the heart of everything we do, the Scholastic Book Fair offers more than just books — a gateway to imagination, learning, and lifelong success.
Why literacy matters
In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, literacy remains a foundational skill for success in all areas of life. Reading is at the core of learning, whether it’s solving a math problem, understanding history, or grasping complex science concepts.
Strong literacy skills empower children to think critically, communicate effectively, and broaden their horizons. More than just the ability to read words, literacy is about comprehending and analyzing information, skills that will benefit students well into adulthood.
Sadly, many students across the country struggle with reading, often due to a lack of access to quality books or encouragement to read for pleasure. This is where initiatives like the Scholastic Book Fair make a difference.
A celebration of books and learning
The Scholastic Book Fair turns reading into an event — a celebration of books. Children are surrounded by various stories, from classic literature to the latest graphic novels, all presented in an environment that encourages curiosity and exploration.
When students walk into the fair, they’re not just buying books but discovering worlds beyond their own. They can see themselves as explorers, adventurers, and problem-solvers, all through the pages of a book.
For many students, this is their first chance to own a book. That sense of ownership can make reading feel more personal and exciting. The fair also helps to build home libraries, ensuring that students have access to reading material outside the classroom, which is crucial for developing literacy skills.
Building a community of readers
The impact of the Scholastic Book Fair extends far beyond the individual child. When students, parents, and teachers come together to celebrate reading, it helps build a community of readers.
Teachers also benefit from the fair. Many schools use the proceeds from book sales to enhance classroom libraries or fund literacy initiatives. This ensures that all students, regardless of background, can access engaging and diverse reading materials. It’s a win-win for the entire school community.
A lasting impact
The Scholastic Book Fair is more than just a few days of book sales. It’s an investment in our students’ futures. Studies have shown that children who read for pleasure outside of school tend to perform better academically.
In our small town, where we know the value of coming together and supporting one another, the Scholastic Book Fair is an event that unites us in the shared goal of growing literacy. It’s a chance for us to invest in our children by buying books and nurturing a lifelong love of reading that will carry them far beyond the classroom.
Dr. Jason Hewitt is superintendent of Shepherd Independent School District.
