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By JOYANNA LOVE/ Managing Editor

Maplesville High School elementary students are raising funds while enjoying a break from the routine through the Camp Read-A-lot read-a-thon.

Reading specialist Gina Abbott and assistant principal Crystal Sabat wanted to do something fun for the students since so many things have been canceled this school year.

“They have missed out on so much already this year,” Sabat said.

Each grade participating has a specific day in which they will read as many books as possible in the auditorium.

Abbott chose the theme Camp Read-A-lot after researching ideas that would be fun but still follow the social distancing guidelines.

“I was trying to do something that would just give them a different environment to read in, rather than just their classroom,” Abbott said.

Donation pledges, either per book or a flat donation, were collected by students prior to their reading day. The days are spread out from Feb. 3-11.

“The students get to dress up in camping gear,” Sabat said. “They get to bring sleeping bags or towels and little flashlights.”

There is a teepee and trees on the auditorium stage to give the event the camp feel, and a campfire is projected on the screen. COVID-19 precautions are being taken.

The event also features hot chocolate and a game break.

“We are just trying to create excitement about reading,” Abbott said.

Abbott said students are going to be able to read books on any reading level. This means older students can read shorter books to finish more in the time allotted.

To ensure that students have completed the number of books that they say they have, students will take Accelerated Reader comprehension tests on each completed book. Books read aloud by the students’ teacher during the week will also count toward their individual total.

She said the event will also start students getting excited for Read Across America events that will be held in March.