There’s a quiet joy in watching a child curl up with a book. There’s a deeper magic when that child shares a page with someone they love.
At Smith-Wade-El Elementary, that magic is cultivated intentionally and joyfully through Books and Breakfast, a a twice-a-year event that’s become a cornerstone of Smith-Wade-El’s school culture and one of the most attended gatherings in the building. What looks like a cozy start to the day is actually a well-planned effort to build stronger family connections, reinforce the importance of daily reading, and create lasting experiences between caregivers and children.
As Principal Amy Martz describes, the event allows families to enjoy a light meal before heading into the library together to sit, read, and connect, often before the school day even begins. “It’s a chance for families to slow down and be present with their kids. We want to make sure literacy is at the center of what we do, both in and out of school. This is one way to reinforce that message in a meaningful way,” she explains.
“We host this event to make sure literacy stays at the top of the list,” Principal Martz explains. “It aligns directly with our district’s Strategic Plan, especially the pillar of Academic Excellence. Daily reading, at least 30 minutes a night, is something I encourage in our announcements. This event reinforces that, with joy.”
The event reinforces one of the School District of Lancaster’s key priorities in its Strategic Plan: Academic Excellence. Daily reading at home is one of the most effective ways to build vocabulary, improve comprehension, and increase overall academic performance. But more importantly, it builds confidence. It helps children feel seen and supported in their learning journey, not just by their teachers, but by their families.
Indeed, Books and Breakfast is a living extension of our mission to build literacy-rich homes and schools. It’s where our Family Engagement Committee shines organizing food, logistics, and a warm welcome. It’s where teachers and staff lend helping hands and guiding hearts. And it’s where parents and caregivers see, firsthand, how powerful one-on-one reading time can be in their child’s development.
Instructional Assistant Pauline Pulaski sees it every time the event is held. “The kids love the library. They love bringing their parents here,” she says. “Some children aren’t reading independently yet, but it doesn’t matter, sitting and listening to a story, or holding a book and turning the pages with someone they love, is just as important. That kind of one-on-one attention really stays with them.”
This sense of wonder and empowerment is at the heart of why the library, as Ms. Pulaski puts it, “is the best place to be in the school.”
That love for the library isn’t by chance. At Smith-Wade-El, it’s been nurtured intentionally through thoughtful curation of books, investment in the space, and a shared belief that literacy is the foundation for everything else. Ms. Martz has prioritized funding for books and materials that reflect students’ interests and identities. When students walk into the library, they’re met with choices that feel exciting and relevant, sparking curiosity and a love for reading that isn’t confined to assignments or expectations, it’s become a place of possibility.
Books and Breakfast also reflects a deeper commitment to family engagement. It’s a reflection of a school community that values not just what students learn, but how they feel when they learn it. It’s a reflection of teachers and staff who go the extra mile to make space for connection. And it’s a reminder that the simple act of sharing a story, especially at the start of the day, can set the tone for everything that follows.
At the School District of Lancaster, we’re proud to see schools like Smith-Wade-El finding meaningful ways to bring families and learning together. It’s not about perfection or performance. It’s about showing up, opening a book, and making time for the moments that matter.
