Gary Community School Corporation takes Literacy to Another Level with Polar Express Event

December 20, 2023

(Gary, IND) — The Gary Community School Corporation gave literacy a lift through an inaugural event titled Roar for Reading: Polar Express. Held over two days at West Side Leadership Academy (WSLA), district youth of all ages partook in activities, played games and mingled with community partners all in the name of literacy.

 

“We always want to make a huge impression when it comes to literacy because it is the foundation for all other learning,” said Chief of Schools Dr. Esther Goodes. “The Polar Express is a story and film that most students are familiar with, so we ran with theme and created an engaging, fun and unforgettable experience for the children and our community.”

 

The surge area at WSLA was all abuzz with story time, concessions stocked with baked cookies and cocoa, a live DJ, photobooth, Christmas tree display, vendor tables and stations where books were given away. The clear showstopper of the festivities was the polar express train stationed at the entrance. Once greeted by the conductor aka Pastor Dwight Gardner of Trinity Baptist Church, each child received a ticket for a train ride.

 

“This event was simply outstanding,” said Gardner. “The looks on the children’s faces were priceless, and the GCSC team had an opportunity to showcase what Gary schools offer.”

 

Also in attendance was Gary Teachers Union President Gleneva Dunham, School Board member Dr. Vanessa Allen-McCloud and Mayor-elect Eddie Melton.

 

The event was made possible thanks to a list of generous sponsors which include NIPSCO, Gary Teacher’s Union, Gary Educational Development Foundation, GPTC, Gary Literacy Coalition, Albanese, Gary Housing Authority, Gary Police Department, Dr. Janet Seabrook, US Steel, Urban League of NWI, Trinity Baptist Church, GAPS, WDS Group, Gary Fire Department and COATES, Inc.

 

The Gary Community School Corporation is currently enrolling students for the new semester. To enroll your scholar, visit http://www.garyschools.org or call 219-881-5466.