TWENTYNINE PALMS — The Morongo Unified School District hosted “Literacy is Life,” on Sunday, March 2nd, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Freedom Plaza in Twentynine Palms. This exciting community gathering celebrated the joy of reading, expanded our collective understanding of literacy and fostered a love for lifelong learning.
Attendees enjoyed a variety of engaging activities, including free meals provided by MUSD Nutritional Services, an interactive art activity led by Groundwork Arts and a free book giveaway made possible by MUSD and the San Bernardino County Office of Education.
Families explored community booths and an impressive display of student work. Engaging story-time read-alouds brought stories to life, led by local educators and special guests. Students showcased their talents through a readers theater performance.
“This event was a wonderful way for families, students and community members to come together and celebrate the power of literacy,” said Melissa Stacey, Literacy Coach at Morongo Unified School District.
A highlight of the event was the keynote address by Erin Gruwell of the Freedom Writers, who delivered an inspiring message about the power of education and storytelling to transform lives.
Gruwell, a renowned educator and author, shared her experiences working with at-risk students in Long Beach, California, and how she empowered them through writing and self-expression. Her powerful story, which inspired the best-selling book The Freedom Writers Diary and the major motion picture Freedom Writers, emphasized the importance of literacy as a tool for change, resilience and empowerment. Attendees were captivated by her passionate speech, leaving inspired to embrace literacy as a means of personal and academic growth.
“We believe that literacy goes beyond reading and writing—it’s a force that unites our community,” said Katie Fleischman, Literacy Coach at Morongo Unified School District. “A heartfelt thank you to our vendors, including Copper Mountain College, i-Ready, Z107.7, Joshua Tree National Park and others, for demonstrating the powerful impact literacy has on all of us.”
The “Literacy is Life” event was part of a district-wide celebration in anticipation of Read Across America Week. Read Across America Week is a program that aims to promote reading through events and partnerships among children and teens across the nation.
For more literacy resources and to learn about the District’s United 4 Literacy Program visit https://www.morongo.k12.ca.us/page/united-4-literacy