4/29/2026
May PARP Activities Calendar & Reading Log
George Southard Reads "Charlotte's Web" by E.B. White
Dear Southard Families,
When I was a young student, I remember sitting at my kitchen table, completely lost in the pages of a specific book. I remember reading it in my classroom, and I even remember the magic of seeing the characters come to life on stage at Melody Fair in North Tonawanda. That book was Charlotte's Web. It wasn't just a story to me-it became a part of who I am. It taught me about friendship, loyalty, and the power of words.
We are launching an initiative at Southard that is very close to my heart: One School, One Book.
May PARP Activities Calendar & Reading Log
George Southard Reads "Charlotte's Web" by E.B. White
Every student from Kindergarten through 4th Grade, every teacher, and every staff member will be reading Charlotte's Web together. But this is more than just a month of reading. This is the "table setting" for a multi-year commitment to our students that we are calling: Lions Lead. Lions Read. Everyone Succeeds.
Our goal is as bold as it is vital: Every single student who walks through the halls of Southard Elementary will become a proficient, confident reader. We cannot reach this goal alone. You are our most important partners in this journey. While the teaching happens in our classrooms, the magic of reading is truly ignited at home. When you read with your child, listen to them explore new words, or simply talk about Wilbur and Charlotte at the dinner table, you are helping us build the foundation for their future success. We need your voice, your encouragement, and your partnership to ensure every child excels.
Reading is the key that unlocks countless doors in life. By reading together as one communityschool and home as one-we are sending a powerful message to our children: Your voice matters, your stories matter, and we are all in this together.
In the words of Charlotte, herself, we think our Southard students are "radiant." Let's work together to show them just how much.
Be on the lookout for your family's copy of the book coming home soon!
With pride,
Mke Hiller
Principal, George Southard Elementary School