In celebration of Read Across America, Assemblyman Andrew Molitor (R,C-Westfield) visited Dunkirk and Fredonia Central Schools on March 6 to inspire young students to develop a love for reading. Throughout the day, he had the pleasure of reading to 130 children across six classrooms in two school districts, engaging students with interactive storytelling and discussion.

Read Across America, celebrated annually during the first week of March, encourages children nationwide to discover the joy of reading. Schools participate in various activities such as themed reading stations, buddy reading programs, author visits and read-a-thons to make literacy fun and exciting.

At Dunkirk Intermediate School, which serves grades 3-6, Molitor was welcomed by Principal Kim Texter. The school, part of the nationally recognized Dunkirk City School District, boasts a vibrant reading culture, including its “100 Point Club”—a program in which students earn points based on the difficulty of books they read. With a student-teacher ratio of 12:1 and a strong focus on literacy, Dunkirk Intermediate fosters an engaging and supportive learning environment.

“The relationship between the students and Principal Texter was phenomenal,” said Molitor. “You could see the enthusiasm for reading in every classroom, and it was an honor to be part of their celebration.”

At Fredonia Elementary School, Molitor was warmly welcomed by Superintendent Dr. Brad Zillox and Principal Mark Drollinger. He read Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can You? to over 100 students in four classrooms. The interactive story was a hit, with students eagerly joining in to make sound effects alongside the assemblyman.

Fredonia Elementary has a strong commitment to literacy, with initiatives like the “12 Days of Reading” Winter Break Challenge, which encourages students to read creatively in different settings. This winter, 168 students participated, earning a hot chocolate reward upon their return to school.

“We had such a fantastic time reading together, and I was thrilled to see how engaged the students were,” said Molitor. “It’s clear that Dunkirk and Fredonia schools are fostering a love for reading, and I look forward to visiting more schools in the district next year.”