On Friday, February 13th, 2nd & 7 paid a visit to Indian Springs Elementary accompanied by players from the Women’s Lacrosse team at Ohio State University. Athletes spent time interacting with young students and reading a book to them, The Hog Mollies and Quincy’s Quest for Quiet. Students received a copy of their own to take home, as well as additional free books from 2nd & 7’s Columbus Kids Book Bank. Along with books, students received coupons for a Happy Meal from McDonalds that can be redeemed after reading a certain number of books as an incentive to continue reading outside of the classroom.
Kerri Steininger, a 2nd grade teacher at Indian Springs Elementary, shared her view on the extent to which our program, specifically the aspect of the integration of college and high school athletes playing the part of positive role models, has a meaningful impact on her students:
“The student athletes teach students that they are students first and athletes second— they talk about how many hours they spend reading, their daily responsibilities, being kind to their classmates… this demonstrates to students that outside of being good at sports, the most important thing is being a good reader, a good friend, and a good student.”
As an educator with a longstanding, 15-year partnership with 2nd & 7, Kerri shared further insight on the value of our program, and addresses any schools that might be considering a partnership with us:
“There’s no reason not to— it’s only an hour, max, of educational time spent. And I would say that it’s not time lost; it’s a valuable experience for both students and the athletes who are able to pay it forward. It’s a program that benefits everyone all around.”
We were glad to be able to attend a reading at Indian Springs Elementary School and not only leave a lasting positive impact on the students but also share the experience with student athletes from Ohio State University who read with the kids and paid it forward.
By Ally Luna Garcia
Cristo Rey High School 2nd & 7 Work Study Student