SKI Academy Launches Month-Long Literacy Initiative

SKI Academy has launched a month-long celebration of literacy, igniting a passion for reading amongst its students through a diverse array of engaging activities. The festivities commenced with the grand reopening of the school’s revitalized library, coinciding perfectly with World Read Aloud Day. This auspicious occasion was further elevated by the presence of Coryn Clarke, a Grade 4 student and burgeoning author, who captivated her peers with readings from her acclaimed series, “The Chronicles of Coryn.” Clarke’s presentation, featuring excerpts from “Adventures in St. Kitts & Nevis” and “Traditional Carnival Characters of Trinidad and Tobago,” served as an inspiring testament to the potential for literary achievement at any age. The library reopening and Clarke’s reading marked the beginning of a month dedicated to fostering a love of literature within the school community.

The momentum continued with the launch of SKI Academy’s annual read-a-thon, themed “Once Upon A Bedtime Story,” creating a palpable buzz of excitement. The school day transformed into a vibrant slumber party, with students and parents arriving in pajamas amidst a mock bedroom setting. This playful atmosphere set the stage for the main event, a Reading Slumber Party on the school lawn, where families were invited to share the joy of reading together in their sleepwear. The read-a-thon not only promotes reading but also serves as the school’s primary fundraising event, with proceeds directed towards library enhancements and classroom resources.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, renowned local author Heidi Fagerberg of Caribbean Reads graced the Reading Slumber Party as the guest author, promising an evening of immersive storytelling. Each class collaboratively crafted original bedtime stories, which Fagerberg brought to life through her captivating readings. The event also featured a book exchange, enabling students to discover new literary treasures to enjoy throughout the week. Fagerberg’s presence, alongside the student-created stories and book exchange, further enriched the read-a-thon’s focus on fostering a love for reading and creative writing.

The newly refurbished SKI Library now boasts an impressive collection of local and regional literature, offering a diverse range of stories that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean. The library’s shelves are adorned with titles such as “Chee Chee in Paradise,” “The Brimstone Hill Adventure Series,” “The Masquerade Dance,” “Tata and The Big Bull,” and of course, Coryn Clarke’s “The Chronicles of Coryn.” The collection also features works by Heidi Fagerberg, including “Sweet Victory,” “Belly Full Soup,” and “Oliver and Friends,” as well as other local authors like Jo-Anne Mason’s “Trixy The Monkey that Ate Nevis” and Anette Walwyn Michael’s “Sugar is All: Caribbean Short Stories and Poems from St. Kitts and Nevis.” This curated selection exposes students to a wealth of Caribbean storytelling, promoting cultural appreciation and literacy simultaneously.

A significant addition to the library is the Tina Beck Book Nook, a dedicated section established through the generosity of former SKI teacher, Ms. Beck, and further supported by the SKI Student Council. This generous contribution has enabled the library to acquire 185 new books, significantly enriching the students’ literary experience. The Tina Beck Book Nook serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the school community in fostering a thriving literary environment for its students, demonstrating a commitment to enriching their educational journey.

Beyond the read-a-thon’s central events, SKI Academy has organized a week-long series of themed activities designed to immerse students in the world of literature. These include “Curl Up With a Good Book Day,” encouraging quiet reading enjoyment; “Character Dress Up Day,” bringing beloved literary figures to life; a scavenger hunt, adding an element of playful exploration to the literary theme; “Book Buddy-Up Day,” pairing older students with younger ones for shared reading experiences; and “Guest Author Day,” providing a platform for middle and high school students to showcase their own original works. This diverse range of activities ensures that Literacy Month is a vibrant and memorable experience for all students, further solidifying the school’s commitment to cultivating a lifelong love of reading and creative writing.