In conjunction with Read Across America and the birthday of Dr. Seuss, Countrywood Primary Center invited many distinguished guests to participate in their annual Read-In on Friday, February 28, 2025. This was a special day to celebrate our love of reading. Countrywood’s very own librarian, Ms. Catherine Korn, dressed as The Cat in the Hat to celebrate the birthday of the well known storyteller. South Huntington faculty and administrators including Superintendent Dr. D’Elia, Mr. Smith, Mr. Conway, Ms. Kavanagh, Dr. Hender, Mr. Barth, Dr. Matt Murphy, Dr. Michaelian, Ms. Villanueva, Ms. Hahn, Mr. Bernadel,  Ms. Workman, Mr. Blair, and Mr. Costa.

In addition, Huntington Manor Fire Chief Brady and Police Officers Doughty and Ciaramitaro, along with Board of Education members Mr. Bronson and Ms. Meijer, shared their love of reading with the students. Also joining us at the annual event were our friends from the South Huntington Public Library, Ms. Rivas-Martinez and Ms. Esposito. Huntington Town Hall was well represented at the Read-In with Councilman Dr. Dave Bennardo and Ms. Carey, Councilwoman Theresa Mari, Councilwoman Brooke Lupinacci, as well as Debbie Zografakis and Samantha Jenkins from Senator Mattera’s office. We were also fortunate to have Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly join us this year.

As adults, we know that reading is one of the most significant learning experiences for children, as it inspires our youth to gain a love of learning. This program was enjoyable for students and teachers, as well as rewarding and memorable for its guest readers. Countrywood’s Read-In is our opportunity to make a difference and show the children of South Huntington that reading is FUNdamental! Thank you to everyone who joined us at this year’s event!

See more photos from this year’s event here.

Ms. Michele Zakow (right) and Ms. Catherine Korn, Countrywood’s librarian (left), celebrated Dr. Seuss in their best costumes alongside (right to left) Legislator Tom Donnelly, Councilwoman Theresa Mari, and Chief of Staff Karen Klafter.

South Huntington administrators gladly took the time to read to our youngest learners on this special morning.

Legislator Tom Donnelly visited Mrs. Trebour’s class for the annual Read Across America event.

Ms. Esposito from the South Huntington Public Library came prepared with a bag full of books to share with Countrywood’s students.

Officer Ciaramitaro had students laughing with the book “Don’t Eat That!”

BOE Trustee Mrs. Erin Meijer had her daughter Julianne join the annual event as a surprise guest reader.

Students celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday with our South Huntington Athletic Director, Mr. Dave Barth.

Board Trustee Mr. Andrew Bronson read “Pig the Fibber,” inspired by his two pet pugs!

Chief Brady read and shared his experiences working in the fire department and gave students their very own helmets to wear and bring home.

Thank you to the staff, teachers, BOE members, town officials and community members for taking the time to participate in this year’s community Read-In at Countrywood, helping to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday and spreading the joy of reading!