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