How do you define the essence of reading? Many see it as a fun and meaningful way to nurture young minds. At Adobe Acres Elementary School, opening a book means opening the mind.
The South Valley school came alive as a family learning hub during its Dr. Seuss-themed Literacy Night earlier this spring. The event marked Read Across America, the nation’s largest annual celebration of reading.
Literacy Night promoted a simple but powerful goal: helping every student make reading a joyful part of daily life. Valerie Fernandez, Community School Impact Coordinator at Adobe Acres, said that “the event was designed to center students at the heart of the experience.”
“Families gathered to share a community meal and explore the world of literacy together, reinforcing the school’s role as a welcoming neighborhood resource,” she said.
The Adobe Acres team created an inviting atmosphere through its support and collaboration. More than 20 faculty and staff members stayed after hours to run activity tables and serve meals. They also dressed as Seussian characters like The Lorax and The Cat in the Hat.
The night also showcased local collaboration. Partners helped Adobe Acres provide tangible resources for families to grow their own home libraries. Libros for Kids & Read To Me!, two community-based literacy nonprofit organizations, provided a wide selection of books. Students took these books home to keep.
Adobe Acres brings these elements together under one roof, reinforcing its role as a hub. The proud Community School operates on the belief that when students, families, educators, and neighbors work together, student success follows.
The evening showed that when a community is “all in” for its students, it turns literacy into a shared adventure.
Adobe Acres is part of Albuquerque Public Schools (APS). The district actively strengthens literacy, especially among young learners.
In fact, APS offers a free and comprehensive summer reading program for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. The district has partnered with the New Mexico Public Education Department for the initiative. This helps children use their time wisely and avoid idle moments during the period.
The program aims to empower participating students. It has three simple goals: enhance literacy, track reading progress, and boost confidence and skills in literacy.
This high-impact opportunity helps students who may be struggling to catch up in reading. It also provides focused instruction for those who want to get further ahead. APS said it is one of the several summer learning programs available to students.