TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Recently airmen from the 349th and 60th Air Mobility wings participated in the Read Across America event at Fairview Elementary School in Fairfield, California, with 19 Total Force volunteers reading to 595 students across 25 classrooms. The volunteers collectively spent 750 minutes reading to children in Transitional Kindergarten through Fifth grade.
“When we get opportunities to volunteer with local schools, it is important we take advantage of these not only to showcase our partnership but to engage with the youth that one day might join our force,” he said. “Events like Read Across America allow us to develop stronger connections with our community partners and boost a love for learning among the children” said Master Sgt. Rafael Hernandez, 349th AMW First Sergeant.
Hernandez coordinated the volunteers as a liaison between the base and the school. The opportunity was open to both active and reserve units on base.
Tech. Sgt. Alexandra Isoken Igbineweka, of the 349th Force Support Squadron, described the experience as fulfilling and insightful.
“Reading to the 2nd-grade class was an absolute pleasure,” she said. “Their enthusiasm and curiosity made the session truly enjoyable. As a parent and a volunteer, I appreciate the principal’s thoughtful approach in having me read to the class, giving me an opportunity to engage with the teacher my child will have next year.”
Principal Candace Wills expressed appreciation for the volunteers’ impact.
“Our students were captivated by your storytelling and energized by your passion. This experience has undoubtedly left a lasting impression and helped to nurture the joy of reading among our students,” she said.
The event underscored the valuable role of community partnerships in enriching local education while providing an opportunity for Air Force personnel to give back and connect with future generations.
Sponsored by the National Education Association, Read Across America events are held at schools across the country to promote children's literacy. The first events were held on March 2, 1998. March 2 was Dr. Seuss' birthday and many of the events were themed around his stories and held on his actual birthday.