The Black Stallion Literacy Project at Oak View Elementary School

On October 16,2001 Oak View fourth graders enjoyed a very special presentation given by The Trueman Communication Group to kick off the Black Stallion Literacy Project here in Montgomery County. Students were welcomed by our Principal, Ms. Peggy Salazar who then introduced Dr. Gregory Bell [pictured above] who is the Director of Diversity Initiatives in MCPS. Dr. Bell shared his enthusiasm for this unique project and expressed that our students are about to participate in the wonderful experience of making literature come alive. Ms. Patricia Gafford [pictured above] explained how riding horses and reading have a lot in common. She told the children that sometimes a rider loses control of the horse and falls to the ground. When this happens the rider can choose to get right back in the saddle and keep going. Reading can also be like this. Sometimes we attempt a difficult word, sentence or paragraph and want to give up but with help and perseverance, we too are able to continue our journey through the book.

Ms. Ellie Trueman of the Trueman Communications Group shared her love and knowledge of horses and introduced us to "Casey", a beautiful chesnut gelding. Know- ing that horses are great motivators for children, Ms. Trueman spoke of the book which all fourth graders are now reading as part of this project. The book is entitled The Black Stallion by Walter Farley and each child has received his or her own personal copy. Click on The Riders to Readers link above for more information about all of the opportunities offered by this exciting new program and share this new adventure with your child.[ Also please visit The Washington Horse Show page which features photos and captions, courtesy of Ms. Gagne's fourth grade class.]

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