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February 27, 2026

Countrywood Celebrates Dr. Seuss' Birthday With Annual Community Read-In

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 27, 2026. 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, Ms. Villanueva, Mr. Toto, Ms. Hahn, Ms. Schlessinger, Ms. Workman, Mr. Blair, and Mr. Costa.

 

In addition, Huntington Manor Fire Chief Chuck Brady and Police Officer Wustenhoff, along with Board of Education President Mr. Ciappetta and trustees Ms. Clark, Mr. Bronson, Mr. Scragg and Ms. Meijer all shared their love of reading with Countrywood’s 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 Councilwoman Brooke Lupinacci. We were also fortunate to welcome Suffolk County Legislators Rebecca Sanin and Tom Donnelly, as well as Congressman Nick LaLota and Thalia Olaya, Governor Hochul’s Regional Representative. 

 

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!

 

 

A person in uniform reads a book to a group of children in a classroom.

Chief Brady read and shared his experiences of working in the fire department with students in Ms. Dovi’s class. 

 

 

A teacher reads a book to a group of attentive children in a classroom setting.

Mr. Costa read a Dr. Seuss classic, perfect for the annual celebration!

 

 

A man reads a book to a group of children in a classroom setting.

Board of Education Trustee Mr. Andrew Bronson got some giggles when he put his sunglasses on while reading The Cool Bean.

 

 

A teacher reads a book to a group of children in a colorful classroom setting.

Ms. Rivas-Martinez from the South Huntington Public Library came prepared with books to read in Spanish with Countrywood’s students. 

 

 

 

A group of students and adults pose for a photo in a classroom setting.

Students in Ms. Lebit and Ms. Powers’ class welcomed Assistant Superintendent for Business, Mr. Conway.

 

 

A teacher reads a book to a group of children in a classroom setting.

Board of Education President Mr. Nicholas Ciappetta left the reading choice up to the students, having them vote between two much-loved Pete the Cat books!

 

 

Congressman Nick LaLota in a suit reads a book to a group of children in a classroom.

Congressman Nick LaLota read to students in Ms. Schwartz’s classroom. 

 

 

A group of people, some in costume, hold children's books in front of a blue backdrop.

Suffolk County and Huntington Town Hall were well-represented at the Read-In with Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin, Huntington Town Councilman Dr. Dave Bennardo, Huntington Supervisor Ed Smyth, Councilwoman Brooke Lupinacci, and Legislator Tom Donnelly.

 

 

Rebecca Sanin Reading to children in Dr. Seuss hats

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin was welcomed to the annual reading event, with students prepared in their best Cat in the Hat attire!

 

 

 

A group of children and adults smile for a photo in a classroom, holding a book.

Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly happily visited Ms. Lacagnina’s class for the annual Read Across America event.