BookEnds came out of the gate strong this school year, with the first major delivery taking place this past Tuesday morning.
Students at Palisades Charter Elementary delivered nearly 4,000 books to Western Avenue Elementary in South Los Angeles, capping off the most successful book drive in school history. Western welcomed the Pali students with open arms, leading a bilingual recitation of the national anthem, a thrilling dance performance set to Lean On Me, even a round of breakdancing. All in all, it was a rousing performance.
 
Before heading off to read with the kindergarten students, the Palisades kids joined the Western 5th graders in their handcrafted sashes for some homemade papusas and chicken. If lasting friendships are made over a meal, this was no exception. As the students parted, they promised each other they would stay in touch.
 
The morning ended with a veritable knockout punch of reading, with every classroom of kinder students on the Western campus staring mouth-agape at their literary captors. One Palisades student was so animated with her storytelling, one student asked, "Is she on TV?" It was a thrilling experience.
 
BookEnds was once again humbled by the enthusiasm and sincerity of our students and the adults they work with. The morning at Western was a testament to the power of reading and the impact of leading. We'd like to thank everyone involved for an inspiring morning.
 
We're looking forward to a great year!
 
Matt Devine
Director of Programs, BookEnds