MONTICELLO, NY — Several members of the Kiwanis Club of Monticello delivered story books to the second-grade classes at the Kenneth L. Rutherford and George L. Cooke elementary schools just before summer break began. The books were selected by Kiwanian Doris Motl (second from right), a retired fourth-grade teacher. Accompanying Motl to the schools were Ellen Nesin (retired Kindergarten teacher and former school board member, far left) and Sheila Lashinsky (Kiwanis public relations chairperson, far right). Second from left is George L. Cooke Elementary School principal Rosemarie Romano.

The students were told that the word “kiwanis” is a Native American phrase meaning “we trade.” Each student was encouraged to take his/her book home and read it over the summer and after reading it, to share—or “trade” it—with others. The books will help the students advance with the NYS Assembly 2018 Summer Reading Challenge. Each child brings a calendar home and checks off each time he/she reads a book. Once they have marked off 40 days or more, the information is submitted to Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther, who will award each child with a NYS Excellence in Reading Certificate.