Camas-Washougal Rotary supports literacy with third grade book baskets Donation

Camas-Washougal Rotarians gather to distribute books to classrooms. Photo courtesy Washougal School District

Rotary members believe that readers are leaders, in their classrooms, in their communities, and eventually in the world

The Camas-Washougal Rotary is donating books to third grade classrooms across both Camas and Washougal elementary schools. The Rotary believes that readers are leaders, in their classrooms, in their communities, and eventually in the world. Each classroom will receive a set of 25 books chosen to support a wide range of reading levels.

Students look at books donated by Camas-Washougal Rotary Club. Photo courtesy Washougal School District

Members gathered in early December to assemble the book baskets for the more than 30 classrooms which will receive the donations. Each basket includes about $240 worth of reading materials along with a dictionary. Much of the funding for this project was raised through the annual Ducky Derby, but Rotarians are still welcoming additional donations to support the project through tax-deductible donations to the Camas-Washougal Rotary Foundation.

Book baskets will be presented to teachers and students over the next month, with Rotary members speaking to students about literacy and the importance of reading.

Project organizer Kathy Bussman shared excitement about the project, saying that “Rotary supports literacy as one way to help the world.” Rotary supports projects to provide access to quality education as a way of investing in local communities. Bussman added that, “Tomorrow’s leaders are today’s readers.”

Rotarians talk about the Rotary Club to Gause students while presenting new classroom reading materials. Photo courtesy Washougal School District

Rotarians answer student questions while donating books. Photo courtesy Washougal School District

Washougal School District Superintendent Dr. Mary Templeton welcomed the donation, noting that, “The generous donation by the Rotary will help cultivate a love of reading in our students. Having additional reading materials with a variety of subjects and reading levels will help make sure that every student finds something to read they’re excited about, which we know is important as they’re developing their literacy skills.”

Gause teacher Heather Hopkins said, “Our students are always thrilled for extra books in the classroom library, and as teachers we love when kids are excited about reading! Thank you so much to the Rotary for their generous donation to ensure our students continue to be excited about reading!”