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San Jose Sharks score big for literacy during Read Across America Week

Hockey stars traded pucks for books to inspire young readers. From surprise classroom visits to new libraries, the Sharks made literacy the week's MVP.

The image shows a book with a picture of a group of people playing hockey on it. The people in the...
The image shows a book with a picture of a group of people playing hockey on it. The people in the picture are wearing helmets and holding hockey sticks, and there is a net in the background. The text on the book reads "Hockey".

San Jose Sharks score big for literacy during Read Across America Week

The San Jose Sharks and their foundation turned the spotlight on literacy during Read Across America Week. Through their Reading is Cool programme, the team brought together players, educators, and community partners to promote reading among young people. The week featured book donations, school visits, and special events to encourage children to discover the benefits of reading.

The celebrations began with the unveiling of a new Little Free Library at Sharks Ice San Jose. This addition expanded the Sharks Foundation's network to three libraries across their Bay Area facilities, including locations in Fremont and Oakland. These libraries aim to provide easy access to books for young readers in the community.

Players and staff took an active role in the initiative. Forwards Macklin Celebrini, Zack Ostapchuk, and Will Smith joined four-time Olympic medalist Rebecca Johnston and broadcaster Dan Rusanowsky for a surprise visit to Bachrodt Elementary School. They read aloud to students, sharing stories to inspire a passion for books. Meanwhile, defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin and the team's mascot, S.J. Sharkie, visited Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara. They spent time with children receiving medical care and donated hockey-themed books to brighten their day. The programme also recognised Mrs. Butler as the *Reading is Cool Teacher of the Month*, presented by PG&E, for her dedication to fostering literacy in the classroom. To cap off the week, 100 students and educators from Fall River Elementary School attended a Sharks home game at SAP Center. The event gave them a chance to experience the excitement of hockey while reinforcing the importance of reading in their lives.

The Sharks' Reading is Cool programme brought literacy to the forefront through school visits, book donations, and community engagement. With three Little Free Libraries now in place, the foundation continues to provide resources that help young readers build confidence and explore new opportunities. The week's events highlighted how sports and education can work together to support children's growth.

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