At Kurtz Elementary, reading has become more than a daily routine—it is a schoolwide celebration that blends literacy with creativity.
Each month, students participate in the “Reading Race,” a program that encourages them to track the number of books they read for a chance to win a themed T-shirt. The initiative promotes reading engagement while building a sense of friendly competition among students.
In March, the program took on an added layer of excitement when students were invited to design the shirts themselves. Centered around the theme “Read, Grow, Bloom,” the contest encouraged young artists to connect literacy with personal expression.
One student’s winning design illustrated a book transforming into a growing plant and ultimately a flower in full bloom—a visual representation of how reading helps students develop and thrive.
For the student artist, the experience offered a meaningful opportunity to share their work with the entire school community. Seeing classmates wear the design brought a sense of pride and connection that extended beyond the classroom.
Through programs like the Reading Race, Huron Valley Schools continues to foster strong literacy skills while elevating student voice, creativity, and a culture of growth.