Governor Perdue Makes Special Visit To Atlanta's Cascade Elementary School In Celebration of Read Across America Day

Atlanta - Today Governor Sonny Perdue, joined by State Superintendent Kathy Cox, Georgia Association of Educators President Merchuria Williams and a tall feline wearing a red and white striped, stove-piped hat visited students at Cascade Elementary School to share the importance and joys of reading. Cascade Elementary is one of 65 elementary schools in the Atlanta Public School system.

The special visit was in support of Read Across America, a project of the National Education Association (NEA). Read Across America, the nation's largest one-day literary event, encourages children in all communities to celebrate reading. The Georgia Association of Educators serves as the project's statewide coordinating sponsor. In its sixth year, Read Across America is held each year to coincide with the birthday of Dr. Seuss, author of numerous children's books.

"I am a proud supporter of excellence in education and academic achievement. Excellence in education begins with committed teachers, staff, parents and students. Academic achievement begins with mastery of core skills - reading, writing and mathematics," said Governor Sonny Perdue.

I am honored to spend time with some Georgia's youngest citizens today to share with them the many doors that good reading skills will open. I applaud GAE and Georgia's other reading advocates for ensuring the continued success of this project. I also especially proud of my wife's efforts as honorary chairwoman in support of Read Across America," added Perdue.

First Lady Mary Perdue, honorary chairwoman for Georgia's 2003 Read Across America events, recorded statewide public service announcements and is scheduled to visit students at nine schools over the next two days.