John L. Ory Magnet promotes National African American Read-In

Published 12:02 am Wednesday, February 15, 2017

John L. Ory Magnet Communication Arts Elementary participated in the 28th Annual National African American Read-In Feb. 7 by inviting retired educators, entrepreneurs, community and district employees and leaders, as well as Ory’s administrative team to read books authored by African Americans about African Americans.

St. John the Baptist Parish President Natalie Robottom reads to students at John L. Ory.

St. John the Baptist Parish President Natalie Robottom reads to students at John L. Ory.

The Read-In celebrates African American literacy as a traditional part of Black History activities.

Coordinated by Bernetta Ambres, Ory’s speech-language pathologist, this year marked her 10th anniversary guiding the event in St. John the Baptist Parish schools.

“Coordinating this event gives me great pleasure in adding to the knowledge of our students,” Ambres said.

“Having this event allows students to learn the vast contributions African Americans have made and continue to make in America. After all, African American History is American History.”

The readers engaged students in lessons and dialogue from kindergarten through eighth grades, creating a positive and enriching atmosphere about the rich heritage of African Americans and their contributions to America, school leaders said.

The Read-In is one of many events Ory is hosting during February. The school’s Inaugural Black History Program, featuring a Live Wax Museum, opens at 6 p.m. with a program beginning at 7 p.m. Feb. 23.