Rotary members believe that readers are leaders, in their classrooms, in their communities, and eventually in the world
The Camas-Washougal Rotary is donating books to third grade classrooms across both Camas and Washougal elementary schools. The Rotary believes that readers are leaders, in their classrooms, in their communities, and eventually in the world. Each classroom will receive a set of 25 books chosen to support a wide range of reading levels.
Members gathered in early December to assemble the book baskets for the more than 30 classrooms which will receive the donations. Each basket includes about $240 worth of reading materials along with a dictionary. Much of the funding for this project was raised through the annual Ducky Derby, but Rotarians are still welcoming additional donations to support the project through tax-deductible donations to the Camas-Washougal Rotary Foundation.
Book baskets will be presented to teachers and students over the next month, with Rotary members speaking to students about literacy and the importance of reading.
Project organizer Kathy Bussman shared excitement about the project, saying that “Rotary supports literacy as one way to help the world.” Rotary supports projects to provide access to quality education as a way of investing in local communities. Bussman added that, “Tomorrow’s leaders are today’s readers.”
Washougal School District Superintendent Dr. Mary Templeton welcomed the donation, noting that, “The generous donation by the Rotary will help cultivate a love of reading in our students. Having additional reading materials with a variety of subjects and reading levels will help make sure that every student finds something to read they’re excited about, which we know is important as they’re developing their literacy skills.”
Gause teacher Heather Hopkins said, “Our students are always thrilled for extra books in the classroom library, and as teachers we love when kids are excited about reading! Thank you so much to the Rotary for their generous donation to ensure our students continue to be excited about reading!”
Information provided by Washougal School District.
Also read:
- Letter: Part One – Inside Ridgefield School District’s failure to protect students
A Ridgefield parent and Rob Anderson describe how student complaints against a high school coach were handled by the school district. - As pennies disappear, Washington must address how retailers make change
Washington lawmakers are considering legislation that would require cash purchases to be rounded to the nearest nickel as pennies are phased out. - Opinion: Business is already leaving Washington
Mark Harmsworth argues that recent and proposed tax policies are pushing Washington businesses to consider leaving the state. - Lawmakers from 17th District to host virtual town hall on Wednesday (Feb. 18)
Lawmakers from the 17th Legislative District will host a virtual town hall to discuss the 2026 legislative session and answer constituent questions. - CMAC welcomes guest to talk about his experience as a combat photographer in Vietnam
Dennis Fisher shared stories and photographs from his service as a Marine Corps combat photographer in Vietnam during a recent CMAC breakfast. - Battle Ground Police investigate fatal auto/pedestrian collision
An adult male pedestrian died after being struck by a vehicle in a Battle Ground Walmart parking lot, with police saying the driver remained on scene and no impairment is suspected. - Vancouver Police investigate fatality collision
Vancouver Police are investigating a vehicle versus pedestrian collision on NE 162nd Avenue near NE Poplar Street that resulted in a fatality.
