Real readers

A few weeks ago, H.G. Olsen Elementary School teachers Heather Collins and Shannon Null challenged their first-grade students to each read at least 30 books at home during a one-month period, from early February to early March. All 32 students reached the goal and were rewarded with a pizza party, provided at no cost by Jay's Seafood and Spaghetti Works. Seven of the students went far beyond the goal and each read more than 100 books. In the photo above, the students receive applause while being recognized during the April 12 meeting of the Port Aransas Independent School District Board of Trustees. The students were, from left, Anne-Marie Appling, Dylan Denton, Ashleigh Simanek, Natalia Bien, Lane Cody and Hannah May. Standing with the children are Collins, left, and Null.

STAFF PHOTO BY DAN PARKER