In celebration of March is Reading Month, Beekman Center welcomed Superintendent Jason Mellema and Mike Lilly, Executive Director of Information Technology Services, to share the magic of storytelling with students. As guest readers, both leaders brought books to life—entertaining students while reinforcing the lasting importance of literacy.
Reading aloud has a measurable impact on student success. According to the National Institute for Literacy, students who are read to at least three times per week are nearly twice as likely to score in the top 25% in reading assessments. Research also shows that hearing stories read aloud helps build vocabulary, strengthens comprehension, and fosters a lifelong love for reading.
More than just an academic skill, reading builds connection. The visit offered students the chance to engage with positive role models who demonstrated how books can open doors—to new ideas, new worlds, and future possibilities.
As classrooms across the district celebrated March is Reading Month, this visit served as a heartwarming reminder of what happens when stories and community come together.
Read the original post + watch the reel.
Recent Stories:
Zander Bowles, a former student in Ingham ISD’s SAIL program, has become a passionate and persistent advocate for accessibility in local government—attending city council meetings, advising on public facility updates, and volunteering across the community.
Haslett Public Schools’ Wilkshire Early Childhood Center is setting an example for what’s possible when a school team dedicates itself to building strong systems for students and families. Their staff has invested countless hours into this work, reviewing data, collaborating on goals, and engaging in professional development alongside Ingham ISD’s PBIS and School Improvement coaches. This partnership ensures Wilkshire’s efforts are intentional, sustainable, and always centered on student success. The result is a program worth celebrating and one we hope inspires other schools across the region.
