George Washington Elementary - Baltimore, MD

Student greeters cheerfully welcomed guests at the doors of George Washington Elementary School and escorted them to the uniquely decorated gymnasium. On every wall, there is a painted mural of life-sized children in silhouetted form and in a myriad of colors:  skipping, flying kites, and in various other fun pursuits near a beach!

The program was emceed by 5th grader Andre Scott and Principal Amanda Rice.  Former City Planning Director Otis Rolley introduced CSF Co-Founder Candy Carson, who encouraged the students to utilize the wonderful gift of the Reading Room.

An alumnus of the school, Grantland Jackson, accompanied by two friends in a beautiful blend of voices, sang two uplifting ‘a cappella’  numbers.  His grandson is a student at the school!
 
At the Reading Room, we discovered a whole new world to explore!  An eclectic mix of fun shapes, colors, and child-centered themes, the students will have a ball reading there!  Decorations include everything from fish netting to bring to mind a “book as a good catch,” to rotating octagonal book display cases, to keep kids thoughts encircling good ideas.  Add the comfy cushions, ivy garland lit with tiny white lights, and you’ve got a reading wonderland!!

Thank you to our sponsor Bank of America and to all the volunteers and committee members for making this possible.

February 2011

Walking into the Ben Carson Reading Room at George Washington Elementary School is like walking into a reading oasis.  The Reading Room which opened in November 2010 continues to evolve with the addition of two colorful murals. 

The first mural shows Dr. Carson with a stethoscope around his neck and a book in his hands. 

The second mural depicts Little Lola (Lola at the Library) enjoying her weekly trip to the library. 

The murals were painted by Windel James.  Both murals are a great addition to the room and are a surefire way to encourage the love of reading.