Mayor Merchant Participates In Read Across America

SUMTER, SC (March 4, 2022) – City of Sumter Mayor David Merchant participated in National Read Across America Day on Friday, March 4, taking the opportunity to share two stories with students at Lemira Elementary School. “I’m excited to be a part of this,” stated Merchant.

Read Across America was established by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998 as a year-round initiative to help foster the love of reading. There are many benefits from reading to children, including improved cognitive development, listening skills, and creativity.

The 2022 Read Across America Day marks the 25th year of the observance of this event. This is the second year Mayor Merchant has participated. “It’s important to be a good reader,” stated Merchant. “I challenge each of you to continue your education. Always read, even when it’s not assigned, it’s an important factor in my success as an adult.”

More information on children’s literacy and Read Across America is available online at https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/student-engagement/read-across-america.

For more information on the City of Sumter’s participation in Read Across America, contact Shelley Kile, Communications and Tourism Director, at (803) 774-1661 or skile@sumtersc.gov

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