Thibodaux Elementary School is inviting Nicholls students, faculty and staff to participate in the “Hello Colonels, Read with Me” program on March 18 to read to books aloud for kindergarten through fourth grade students and encourage them to become effective readers. “Everyone is encouraged to participate. It’s not just for students to participate in, but the whole Nicholls State community. (The project’s) goal is to make students more active, lifetime readers,” Michael Delaune, director of University Relations, said.

Participants are encouraged to bring and read the book of their choice, preferably a children’s favorite, as long as it is appropriate for elementary students. Books will be available to those students who are unable to bring a book of their choice.

Debbie Kleibert, project coordinator and secretary for University Relations, said students are also encouraged to wear Nicholls apparel, tell the students about themselves and share about their experiences at Nicholls.

The event will take place on Monday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Readers are needed every half-hour during that period. The deadline for registration has been extended until Friday at noon.

Kleibert said there have been more than 50 volunteers so far and are hoping for more participants.

“I’m amazed at the enthusiasm of our school’s willingness to participate. People are willing to change their schedules to be a part of it. I feel the Nicholls community is really going to make an impact (on the Thibodaux Elementary students),” Kleibert said.

Delaune said the original goal was to have one student per class in the 50 available classrooms, but responses have exceeded his expectations.

“The response has been very encouraging. If we can put two readers in a classroom, we would be very happy with that result,” he said.

“Hello Colonels, Read with Me” day is part of the first ever Reading is FUNdamental Community Reading Challenge held at Thibodaux Elementary from March 7-21.

The project is a nationwide project federally funded by RIF and the MetLife Foundation designed to involve families and communities in motivating children to become more effective readers.

Thibodaux Service League, who donates $1,500 per year to Thibodaux Elementary, is also supporting the event, and has been supporting RIF’s activities for 27 years. The league donates free books three times a year to Thibodaux Elementary students.

Thibodaux became eligible to host the project because of their past involvement with RIF.

“It’s very successful from what I understand. March 18 is designated just for the Nicholls community, but there have been media members, health professionals, family members and others who have participated,” Delaune said.

Donna Bergeron, challenge coordinator and administrative assistant of Thibodaux Elementary School, urges Nicholls students to participate.

“Giving only a small amount of time brings big returns for our future. Sharing a book with young children is rewarding and makes one feel good. Anyone who can participate will certainly benefit from it,” she said.

Students, faculty and staff can register to participate in the program by calling Kleibert at 448-4143.

Bergeron also said a book fair will continue through next week in conjunction with the project, and is open to the public.