By Dennis Jarrett, Director of Media & Community Relations
Students at Hawthorne Elementary School and Liberty Park Elementary School got an exciting assist from the Indiana Pacers organization as part of Read Across America Week, when Pacers Sports & Entertainment brought its Read Like a Pro initiative to both schools.
The special visits turned reading time into a memorable experience as Pacers staff members, Pacemates and community volunteers joined students for interactive “Reading Timeouts.” During the sessions, volunteers read aloud with students, shared the joy of storytelling and encouraged young readers to discover the power of books.
The event is part of a statewide effort led by Pacers Sports & Entertainment and presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield to inspire lifelong literacy habits. Corey Wilson, Senior Vice President of Community Engagement for the Pacers organization, said the goal is simple: make reading fun while helping students build confidence and curiosity. The Warren Arts and Education Foundation was instrumental in bringing the event to both schools.
At each school, students enthusiastically participated in group reading activities and interactive discussions that reinforced the importance of reading both at school and at home.
Students will also take part in the month-long Read Like a Pro Challenge, sponsored by Pacers forward Jarace Walker, which encourages continued reading beyond the classroom. Three students from each of the six schools will be selected to win a special Indiana Pacers experience, including a meet and greet with Walker, at the game on April 12 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
For Hawthorne and Liberty Park students, the visit proved that when sports and education come together, reading truly becomes a winning play.