One hat, two hat, red hat, huge hat

Larger than life hats and hairstyles so crazy you’d have to see it to believe it were the norm at Holyoke Elementary on Monday morning. There students and teachers alike kicked off the March 2-6 Read Across America Week.

Each year on Dr. Seuss’ birthday, schools across the nation celebrate Read Across America Day. In Holyoke, at least, that day is followed by a whole week’s worth of festivities.

On Monday, students were greeted by the Cat in the Hat when they arrived at school with their wild hats and hairdos. That morning, they gathered in the gym for a production of Dr. Seuss’ “Daisy-Head Mayzie” by the Phillips County Players.

Seussical Musical Day was Tuesday’s theme, and students were encouraged to create a crazy musical instrument. They made the trek to the high school to watch the fifth and sixth grade bands rehearse, and on the way back to school, they played their silly instruments.

For Wacky Wednesday, students could wear their usual clothes inside out or backwards or even dress in crazy mismatched outfits. Popcorn with parents was held in each class so that kids could share their love of reading with their parents.

Holyoke Elementary will wrap up the week with class color day Thursday and a read-in Friday. For the read-in, students and staff are welcome to wear their pajamas. With pillows and blankets to really get comfy, the kids will enjoy snacks and the books of their choice at the end of the school day.

The reading doesn’t have to stop there, though. The goal, as always, is to show students the joy of reading and encourage them to keep up the habit long after Read Across America Week.