National Read Across America Week is a time to celebrate the joy of reading and inspire a lifelong love of books in children. At Penfield Children’s Center, this week is extra special thanks to our amazing community partners, guest readers, and dedicated teachers who bring stories to life. 

Special Guest Readers 

This year, we were thrilled to welcome: 

• Sarah Giovannetti from Imagine MKE, who visited our Back Nursery and Orange Classroom to spark excitement around books and reading 
• Cheryl Finger, Assistant to the City of Milwaukee Fire Chief, who read in our Gold Room and inspired curiosity among our students 
• Wes Tank, who brought high-energy literacy to life by rapping children’s books over beats 
• George Karioris, who read in the Orange Room and encouraged a love of storytelling 
• Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson, who shared her love of literacy and gifted copies of Milwaukee County A-to-Z to classrooms 
• Montse Ricossa from CBS 58, returning for her third visit to celebrate Read Across America Week 
• Former CEO Chris Holmes, who joined the Purple Classroom to reconnect and share stories 
• Shakita L. LaGrant McClain, Milwaukee County Director of Health and Human Services, who spent the morning reading and celebrating early literacy 

Each guest reader spent time in our classrooms sharing stories, sparking curiosity, and celebrating the joy of reading with our students. 

Celebrating Partnerships and Teachers 

We are grateful to all of our community partners, guest readers, and Penfield teachers. Their efforts create engaging, nurturing classrooms where children can grow, explore, and fall in love with reading. These moments highlight the power of partnerships in building early literacy and making meaningful connections. 

Get Involved 

If you are interested in reading in our classrooms and helping bring stories to life, explore our Take a Look, Read a Book Program: Learn more