November 18, 2025 – Each November, schools across the country celebrate National Young Readers Week, a tradition launched in 1989 by the Library of Congress and the creators of the Pizza Hut Book It! program. The goal was simple: encourage a love of reading by showing children that books matter, not just in school, but in everyday life.

Over the years, the week has grown into a nationwide celebration featuring guest readers, special literacy activities, and countless opportunities for students to see adults modeling a love of stories. Mexico Public Schools proudly carries on this tradition, inviting community members into classrooms to read aloud and inspire the next generation of readers.

This year, classrooms at Hawthorne Elementary and Eugene Field Elementary were filled with familiar faces: parents, grandparents, Bulldog staff members, community partners, and local leaders. They all shared their favorite stories with students.

Ms. Sammie Hobbs, Hawthorne Elementary teacher, shared this week is something she looks forward to all year. “National Young Readers Week is one of my favorite weeks of the school year! I love inviting community members to read to my students because it shows them that reading is important and valued by everyone.”

She shared how her students light up each morning as they check the schedule to see who will be visiting their classroom that day. This year was extra special when her mother joined as a guest reader, choosing the book “Different – A Great Thing to Be!,” which celebrates individuality and features illustrations of children with Down Syndrome, hearing aids, glasses, and more.

“It gives people an opportunity to share something meaningful to them and make a connection with students,” Hobbs added. 

At Eugene Field, the excitement was just as strong, with students eager to welcome parents and teachers to hear new stories. Madeline Riley, Ms. Koenig’s cousin and former Bulldog teacher, visited the third grade classroom and read “All Are Welcome,” by Alexandra Penfold.

Ms. Koenig shared that each guest brings something unique: books tied to their hobbies, stories they loved as kids, or titles that carry personal meaning. “Each guest reader brings books and stories that make reading feel like a celebration, and I am so thankful our district embraces this week.”

Across the district, National Young Readers Week continues to serve as a joyful reminder that reading connects people, the Bulldog family and the broader community. Whether it’s a parent sharing a childhood favorite, a community leader reading for the first time, or a teacher watching her students lean in with excitement, the purpose remains the same: foster a lifelong love of reading.

Mexico Public Schools is grateful to everyone who stepped into a classroom last week to share their voice, their stories, and their time. Moments like these help our students see that reading is not only a skill, but a joy.