Family Reading Night at Bang ES

David Jessop works with his daughter, Bang ES student Lenet Jessop on a reading-related project during the ‘All Aboard the Reading Express’ family reading night on Dec. 2.

Students in grades pre-K through 5 brought their families to the schoolwide family reading night, “All Aboard the Reading Express,” at Bang ES on Dec. 2. 

Bang students and their families dressed in their favorite pajamas and traveled to nine different stations that included engaging activities. After being greeted by the conductor, assistant principal Dr. James Bishop, students listened to a dramatic reading of The Polar Express by librarian Elisa Mann.

At a writing station, students wrote letters and winter wishes and read them to their parents. In the computer lab, students participated in a scavenger hunt using various technology resources.  The event included a book walk, as well as Smart Board activities in the cafeteria. 

“Many students won a book of their choice,” said Bang principal Erwann Wilson. “The excitement on their faces was priceless!” 

Students who traveled to the music room enjoyed roasting marshmallows while singing around a make-believe campfire. Music teacher Emily Sullivan and fifth-grade teacher Katheryn Nasr challenged the students to read the words of the songs, sing in their best voices and roast their marshmallows at the same time. 

In the next room, sequencing activities took place. Students of all ages worked closely with their parents to read a short story and construct a sequence chain. Numerous families enjoyed stopping by the “Snuggle Up With a Great Book” station, reading in a relaxed setting created by the kindergarten team. Just a few feet away, many students enjoyed reading and writing vocabulary in colored sand.  

“At the end of family reading night, students and their parents left with a suitcase of ideas, prizes, and other goodies,” Wilson said. “They also left with a smile and stated they will be back on the express for next year’s event. ‘All Aboard the Reading Express’ family reading night was a huge success!”

Memphis Papini assists her daughter, Brielle Papini Flores, on family reading night. 

Add captionBang LIFE Skills aide Jennifer Kaler and teacher Julie Gassaway dress up as elves for Family Reading Night.

Bang ES students Natalie Cornelio and Julianna Cornelio “roast” marshmallows over an imaginary fire with teacher Katheryn Nasr during family reading night. 

Bang ES librarian Jennifer Mann reads The Polar Express to students during family reading night.