Last week, a Woodford tradition occurred… Reading Extravaganza! Every year, students are given the opportunity to read a book and participate in a discussion with their classmates, for extra credit. Reading Extravaganza has been a Woodford tradition for many years, and each year, a new variety of books is offered for students.
The Reading Extravaganza process typically starts 1-2 months before the discussion date. This year, a list of books was sent out, and students were able to vote on the ones they would be most interested in. To sign up, students must go to the library and select one of the books on the list. Books from all different genres are available for selection, so anyone who wants to participate can find a book that matches their interests. Once students have selected their book, they have about a month to read it before the date of the Reading Extravaganza. Students gathered in the library on April 17th after school for an afternoon of book discussion and fun. Reading Extravaganza took place from 3:45-4:45, and during the hour, students were provided with snacks, drinks, and a safe space to share their opinions about their books. Once everyone had gotten snacks, students split up into their book groups with peers who read the same book. Each group had a teacher acting as a “discussion leader” who also read the book. Students engage in discussions, and in exchange, many teachers give extra credit. This program gives students the opportunity to interact with teachers and other students they may not typically engage with.
This event is open to all grade levels, and this past Thursday, senior Elizabeth Jackson participated in her first Reading Extravaganza! She read All The Bright Places and attended the event. When asked about Reading Extravaganza, Elizabeth said her favorite part was “how it brought many different people together, teachers and students”. This aspect of the event is what makes it truly special. Teachers can select books to recommend to students and then lead discussions about those books. This allows both students and teachers to connect with people they normally wouldn’t and share a book they are passionate about.
Our WCHS librarian, Mona Romine, works tirelessly every year to put on the event. When asked about her favorite aspect, Romine said, “It may sound strange, but the sounds of the event itself are so satisfying. The laughter and gasps, and chatter that come from group discussions fill me with happiness. All of our participants are potential book club members one day, and that is SO fun to think about. Reading is a lifelong hobby, and interacting with other readers takes it to another level.” Many people don’t see the importance of reading, and this event highlights it. Over 250 students participated in the event this year, making it one of the biggest turnouts we’ve had.
Students who participated in Reading Extravaganza this year had overwhelmingly positive things to say about both their book and the event itself. There is a reason this tradition has been such a longstanding one, and that is because of the connectedness it fosters inside Woodford County. This time next year, be sure to check out the book options and sign yourself up for a fun afternoon and some extra credit!