News & Views
Festival of Books - A Celebration of Reading
A week-long celebration of literacy, Country School’s “Festival of Books” provided many opportunities to build community, expand libraries and instill a love of reading in students Nov. 8-10. Perennially one of the Parents' Association's biggest fundraisers, the festival once again brought together storytellers and book lovers of all ages.
Members of the Lower School and Horizons communities got cozy in their pajamas, ate pizza and listened to teachers Maria Sette, Melissa Gomes and Horizons at New Canaan Country School academic instructors Monae Cherry and Valeria Ochoa read seasonal favorites during PJs & Pizza, Nov. 9. A rousing game of BINGO added to the evening festivities with Upper School students assisting emcees Head of School Aaron Cooper and teacher Sean Robb.
A sale of new books curated by Main Street Books was held in the school’s Grace House lobby and Carver Commons throughout the week and online sales continued through Nov. 13. The Head of School, Division Heads, School Librarians, School Psychologists, and the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion all made book recommendations which were identified in a special display. These books are traditionally big sellers as shoppers love the personal recommendations of these respected educators.
A sale of new books curated by Main Street Books was held in the school’s Grace House lobby and Carver Commons throughout the week and online sales continued through Nov. 13. The Head of School, Division Heads, School Librarians, School Psychologists, and the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion all made book recommendations which were identified in a special display. These books are traditionally big sellers as shoppers love the personal recommendations of these respected educators.
Additionally Nia Means Purpose, a children’s book authored by Horizons Academic Director Lavone Roberson who passed away in early October, was featured in her honor. Proceeds from sales were donated to Lavone’s foundation, Now I am Nia.
New and gently used grades 1-10 level books are being collected through Nov. 18 as part of a book drive in partnership with Turning Pages. All books collected will be distributed during a book fair later this year for Horizons at NCCS students.
New York Times best selling children’s author Christina Sharkey Geist read several of her books including, Buddy’s New Buddy, to our youngest students, Nov. 9. This story is part of a heartwarming and humorous 3-book series that explores evergreen social-emotional themes like authenticity and friendship-building.
“We would like to thank the entire Country School community for its support of this beloved annual Parent Association event,” said Parents’ Association President Jen Kline. “We are so appreciative of the many parents, faculty, staff and students who participated in this year’s Festival of Books and dedicated their time and efforts to ensuring its success!”
Country School gives a special thanks to 2022 Festival of Books co-chairs Kristie Godina, Lizzie Anderson (Tocks) and Kristy Chattaway.
New Canaan Country School
New Canaan Country School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin and are afforded all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin or ancestry, or disability in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid policies or any other school-administered programs.
